NEW YORK — Target Corp. said Thursday that it is ending its relationship with celebrity cook Paula Deen as fallout builds from revelations that the Southern celebrity chef used racial slurs in the past.

Diabetes drug maker Novo Nordisk also joined the companies distancing themselves from her. The discounter, based in Minneapolis, said that it will phase out its Paula Deen-branded cookware and other items. “Once the merchandise is sold out, we will not be replenishing inventory,” said Molly Snyder, a Target spokeswoman.

Diabetes drug maker Novo Nordisk said Thursday it and Deen have “mutually agreed to suspend our patient education activities for now.” The developments are the latest blow to Deen’s business.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, said Wednesday that it’s also cutting ties with Deen. The world’s largest retailer currently carries a variety of products under her moniker, including food items, cookware and health and wellness products, at all of its 4,000 U. S. namesake stores.