Little Remedies honey cough syrup recalled nationwide: What parents need to know

As parents, we do everything we can to keep our children safe—especially when they’re sick. That’s why a new nationwide recall of a popular over-the-counter children’s cough medicine is raising serious concern.

Medtech Products Inc. has voluntarily recalled several lots of Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found the presence of Bacillus cereus, a harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness—and in severe cases, even death.

The recalled syrup, a go-to for many parents looking for natural relief for their child’s cough, was sold online and in stores across the U.S. between December 2022 and June 2025. While no serious injuries have been reported as of now, the company is urging families to stop using the affected products immediately.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your little ones safe.

What’s being recalled and why it matters

The recall affects Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup, sold in 4 FL OZ (118 mL) amber bottles, commonly found in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers. The syrup is marketed as a gentle, natural remedy made with honey to soothe coughs in children — but the recent discovery of Bacillus cereus contamination has made certain lots unsafe for use.

According to the official FDA notice, the bacteria was detected in certain lots, prompting a recall due to concerns about shelf stability and potential health risks. While no other Little Remedies® products are affected, all lots of this particular syrup still within the expiration date have been included in the recall out of an abundance of caution.

Here are the affected lot numbers and expiration dates:

• Lot 0039 – Expires 11/2025
• Lot 0545 – Expires 01/2026
• Lot 0640 – Expires 02/2026
• Lot 0450 – Expires 05/2026
• Lot 1198 – Expires 12/2026

Each recalled bottle has a UPC of 7-56184-10737-9 and should have the lot number printed on both the label and the bottom of the box.

If you have one of these in your medicine cabinet, read on for what steps to take next.

What is Bacillus cereus and what symptoms to watch for

Bacillus cereus is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness when ingested — especially when it grows in products that are no longer shelf-stable. While it may sound unfamiliar to many parents, the symptoms it causes are unfortunately very recognizable.

There are two common types of illness linked to B. cereus:

• The first appears 1 to 6 hours after exposure and typically causes nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
• The second appears 8 to 16 hours after exposure, with symptoms including diarrhea and abdominal pain. In some cases, the diarrhea may be severe and watery.

In most healthy children, these symptoms may pass on their own. However, exposure to high levels of Bacillus cereus can lead to more serious illness — and in rare cases, it can be fatal.

If your child has consumed the recalled syrup and shows any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your pediatrician or seek medical attention right away. When in doubt, trust your instincts — you know your child best.

Related: Here’s how I’m preparing for my kids’ sick days this year

What parents should do right now

If you have a bottle of Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup at home, the first step is to stop using it immediately — even if your child has taken it without any symptoms. Check both the UPC (7-56184-10737-9) and the lot number, which can be found on the bottle label and the bottom of the box.

Here’s what to do next:

• If your child has taken the syrup and is experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain, call your pediatrician right away.
• If your child seems fine, monitor them closely for symptoms for up to 24 hours.
• To request a refund or report an issue, you can contact Medtech directly:
  • Call: (800) 754-8853 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET)
  • Email: medicalaffairs@prestigebrands.com 
  • Website: www.prestigebrands.com/contact

If you or your healthcare provider believe your child experienced a reaction to the product, you can also report it through the FDA’s MedWatch program at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

It’s always okay to ask questions, trust your instincts, and reach out for guidance when your child’s health is involved.

Related: Target recalls baby food over lead concerns—here’s what parents should do

The bottom line

Recalls like this can feel unsettling, especially when they involve products we trust. But by staying informed and taking quick action, you’re doing exactly what your child needs.

No serious injuries have been reported, and the recall is precautionary — but it’s always better to be safe. If you have concerns, talk to your pediatrician. When it comes to your child’s health, caution is care.