Urgent Recall: Baby Formula Linked to Infant Botulism in 10 States

UPDATE: Federal and state health officials have launched an urgent investigation into 13 cases of infant botulism linked to baby formula across 10 U.S. states. ByHeart Inc. has initiated a recall of two lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, following the alarming reports.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that infants hospitalized after consuming formula from lots 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2 are located in states including Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported.

The FDA is investigating the source of the contamination and whether any other products may be affected. The affected formula is available online and at major retailers, accounting for approximately 1% of national formula sales, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Consumers who purchased the recalled formula are advised to check the lot number before disposal or returning the product to retailers. The CDC recommends cleaning any items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula using a dishwasher or hot, soapy water. Parents should seek immediate medical attention if an infant exhibits symptoms such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression after consuming the recalled formula.

Infant botulism, caused by a bacterium that produces toxins in the large intestine, can take weeks for symptoms to manifest, making vigilance crucial for parents during this time.

As this situation develops, families are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The health implications are serious, and immediate action is essential to ensure the safety of infants across the country.

For further updates, keep an eye on official health channels, including the FDA and CDC. Your child’s safety is paramount—act quickly if you have purchased the recalled product.