Urgent Recall: Baby Formula Linked to Infant Botulism Cases

UPDATE: Federal and state health officials have just announced a significant recall of baby formula following reports of 13 cases of infant botulism across 10 U.S. states. The recalled product, made by ByHeart Inc., includes two specific lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, identified as 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2.

All infants affected were hospitalized after consuming the contaminated formula, with cases reported in states including Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is actively investigating the source of contamination and whether it extends to other products. Currently, this formula accounts for approximately 1% of national infant formula sales, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Consumers who purchased the affected formula are advised to check their products for the recalled lot numbers. The CDC urges individuals to safely dispose of the formula and to thoroughly clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with it using a dishwasher or hot, soapy water.

Parents are also warned to monitor their infants closely. If symptoms such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression occur after consuming the recalled formula, immediate medical attention is essential. Infant botulism can develop gradually, with symptoms taking weeks to manifest.

As the situation develops, further updates from health officials are expected. Parents and caregivers should remain vigilant and stay informed about the recall and its potential health implications.

For immediate assistance or questions regarding the recall, consumers are encouraged to contact ByHeart Inc. or their healthcare provider.