ByHeart Infant Formula Recall Expands Amid Rising Botulism Cases
ByHeart has expanded its recall of infant formula products as the number of botulism cases among infants rises to 31 across 15 states.
Health officials report that 31 infants across 15 states have been hospitalized with botulism linked to ByHeart infant formula. The affected infants, aged between two weeks and six months, have been treated, with no fatalities reported.
Despite a nationwide recall initiated by ByHeart, state inspections in Oregon, Minnesota, and Arizona have found the recalled formula still available on some store shelves.
ByHeart voluntarily recalled all its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, including cans and single-serve packets, in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The company stated that no unopened products have tested positive for Clostridium botulinum spores or toxins.
The FDA has conducted inspections at ByHeart's manufacturing facilities in Allerton, Iowa, and Portland, Oregon, with results pending.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by bacteria that produce toxins in the intestines. Symptoms can take up to 30 days to appear and include constipation, poor feeding, weak cry, drooping eyelids, and muscle weakness.
Health officials advise parents and caregivers to stop using any ByHeart infant formula immediately. If the product has been used, they recommend marking it as "DO NOT USE" and retaining it for at least a month in case symptoms develop, as the formula may need to be tested.
The California Department of Public Health has established a public hotline at 833-398-2022, staffed from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Pacific Standard Time, to assist concerned parents and caregivers.