Children's cough syrup recalled over bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses

(WKBN) – The presence of a bacterium that can cause two types of foodborne illnesses has prompted the recall of multiple lots of a children's cough syrup, a notice posted to the Food and Drug Administration's website announced this week.

Medtech Products Inc. is recalling five lots of Little Remedies Honey Cough Syrup due to the presence of Bacillus cereus, as well as the "loss of shelf-stability," the company explained.

The recalled products were distributed nationwide. They were sold 4-ounce bottles, both in stores and online, between Dec. 14, 2022, and June 4, 2025.

Identifying information, including the UPC and lot numbers, as well as the expiration dates, can be found below:

No other Little Remedies products were included in the recall.

While no serious adverse events have been reported in connection to the cough syrup, the FDA warns that Bacillus cereus can cause short-term illness and, in some cases, lead to death.

Bacillus cereus, or B. cereus, is a spore-forming bacterium that commonly exists in our environment, the Cleveland Clinic explains. Exposure to the toxin it creates can result in one of two types of illness — one described as a diarrheal syndrome and another as a vomiting syndrome. The first is characterized by cramps and watery diarrhea, while the second more commonly causes nausea and vomiting.

In severe cases, Bacillus cereus infection can lead to death.

Those who believe they may be suffering from an illness caused by Bacillus cereus are urged to contact a healthcare provider.

Customers who purchased the recalled Little Remedies cough syrup are being told to discard the product. Those with questions or refund requests can reach Medtech at 1-800-754-8853, by email at medicalaffairs@prestigebrands.com, or through the company's website.