ByHeart Recalls Infant Formula Amid Botulism Cases in 10 States

Federal and state health officials are investigating 13 cases of infant botulism across 10 U.S. states linked to ByHeart Inc.'s Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. The affected states include Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. All 13 infants were hospitalized after consuming formula from two specific lots: 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2. No deaths have been reported.

In response, ByHeart has initiated a voluntary recall of the implicated lots. The company stated that, "out of an abundance of caution," it is recalling these batches following notification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about the ongoing investigation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises consumers to discontinue use of the recalled formula immediately. Parents and caregivers should record the lot number before disposing of or returning the product. Additionally, they should clean any items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

Infant botulism is caused by ... Symptoms can take weeks to develop and may include poor feeding, loss of head ... , and decreased facial expression. Parents are urged to seek immediate medical care if their infant exhibits any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled formula.

The FDA and CDC are continuing their investigation to determine the source of contamination and whether other products may be affected.