Infants fall sick in 10 US states after consuming popular baby formula

At least 13 infants in the United States have been hospitalised with botulism after consuming baby formula that has now been recalled. The illnesses are linked to certain lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, the US Food and Drug Administration said in a statement on Saturday, November 8. The illness has affected 10 US states – Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. No deaths have been reported so far.

The products linked to the infant botulism outbreak are powdered formula from ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. Look for the following lot codes and ‘Use by’ dates located on the bottom of the infant formula cans:

• Lot: 206VABP/251261P2 (‘Use by 01 Dec 2026’)
• Lot: 206VABP/251131P2 (‘Use by 01 Dec 2026’)

Following reports of the illness, the federal agency asked for the recall of the products linked to the cases. “Today, ByHeart, Inc. agreed to initiate a recall of the two lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula (Lot: 206VABP/251261P2 and Lot: 206VABP/251131P2) that were reported to have been consumed by the infants,” the FDA said.

What is infant botulism?

Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness that occurs when food contaminated with spores from a type of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum is swallowed by infants. These spores infect a baby’s large intestine and produce toxins. According to the CDC, infant botulism often starts with constipationbut is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing), a weak or altered cry, and loss of muscle tone. This illness affects children under the age of one.

The symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, poor feeding, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, the illness may progress, causing flaccid paralysis that can lead to breathing difficulties and require weeks of hospitalisation.

“Botulism can be fatal, and you should take action right away. If your child has consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and is experiencing signs and symptoms of botulism, seek immediate health care,” the FDA said.

Physicians are asked to immediately call 510-231-7600 for case consultation, which is available 24/7, if they suspect their infant patient has botulism.

What to do if you have the recalled products

The FDA is investigating how the contamination occurred and whether it affected any other products. ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula is available for sale online and at major retailers nationwide. According to the FDA, ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula makes up an estimated 1% of all infant formula sales in the United States.

If you have the recalled infant formula in your home, throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. The CDC also recommends washing items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

As symptoms can take weeks to develop, parents should remain vigilant, the CDC said.

Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.