Baby formula recalled after reports of infant botulism in 10 U.S. states

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Following reports of infant botulism cases linked to ByHeart Inc.’s Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, federal and state health officials are currently investigating 13 cases in 10 states. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced the recall of two lots of the formula, namely 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2.

All 13 infants affected by the formula were hospitalized in Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths associated with the contamination. The FDA is actively looking into how this contamination occurred and whether it has impacted any other products.

ByHeart Inc. has taken swift action by initiating the voluntary recall of the affected lots. Mia Funt, the company’s co-founder and president, emphasized that the safety of infants using their formula is their top priority. The recall is a precautionary measure to ensure transparency and the well-being of babies and their parents.

A container of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.
Business Wire via AP

The affected product, which makes up approximately 1% of national formula sales, is available online and in major retailers. Consumers who have purchased the recalled formula are advised to note the lot number before disposing of it or returning it to the point of purchase. Additionally, they should thoroughly clean any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

Parents are urged to seek medical attention if their infant exhibits symptoms such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression after consuming the recalled formula. Infant botulism is caused by a bacterium that produces toxins in the large intestine and can lead to serious health complications if not promptly addressed.

Symptoms of infant botulism may include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, sluggish pupils, a flattened facial expression, diminished reflexes, weak cry, respiratory difficulties, and respiratory arrest. Parents should remain vigilant and seek medical help if they observe any of these signs in their child.