Urgent Recall: Baby Formula Linked to 13 Infant Botulism Cases

Federal and state health officials are investigating a troubling outbreak of infant botulism linked to a baby formula that has led to the hospitalization of 13 infants across ten states. The affected product, manufactured by ByHeart Inc., is being recalled after concerns were raised about its safety.

On October 7, 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of two specific lots of the company’s Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, identified as 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2. All reported cases of illness have been tied to these lots, with affected infants requiring hospitalization after consuming the formula. The states involved in this incident include Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.

The FDA is actively investigating the source of the contamination to determine how the bacteria responsible for infant botulism infiltrated the product and whether other batches may also be affected. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the recalled formula represents approximately 1% of national formula sales, raising concerns about its widespread availability online and in major retail outlets.

Consumers who purchased the recalled formula are urged to check the lot numbers. The CDC recommends that individuals dispose of the formula safely, ideally documenting the lot number beforehand. They also advise cleaning any surfaces or items that may have come into contact with the formula, using either a dishwasher or hot, soapy water. Parents are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention if their infant exhibits symptoms after consuming the recalled product, such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression.

Infant botulism is a serious condition caused by a bacterium that generates toxins in the large intestine. Symptoms can take weeks to manifest, underscoring the need for vigilance among caregivers during this period.

A spokesperson for ByHeart Inc. did not provide an immediate comment regarding the recall when contacted for further information. As the investigation unfolds, health officials continue to stress the importance of monitoring any potential symptoms in infants and adhering to recall guidelines to ensure safety.