In brief
ByHeart infant formula is under scrutiny following reports of a botulism outbreak that has sickened at least 31 babies across 15 states. Laboratory tests revealed that five samples contained Clostridium botulinum type A, due to which families are urged to stop using the formula and monitor infants for symptoms. The FDA is urging consumers to report any related health issues as investigations into the contamination continue.
Tests of ByHeart infant formula linked to a botulism outbreak have shown that potentially all of the company's products may be contaminated.
Laboratory tests conducted on 36 samples from three different lots indicated that five samples contained the bacteria responsible for this rare yet serious illness, as confirmed by the company on its website.
The company stated, Based on these results, we cannot rule out the risk that all ByHeart formula across all product lots may have been contaminated. At least 31 babies across 15 states who consumed ByHeart formula have been affected, with illness reports dating back to August.
Further, some infants had previously suffered from botulism earlier this year, hinting at a more extensive issue than initially recognized. The type of bacteria detected, Clostridium botulinum type A, can be unevenly distributed in powdered formula, posing a risk especially for infants under one year old.
Despite a nationwide recall of ByHeart formula on November 11, state officials and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have noted that some products remain available on store shelves. Parents are advised to immediately discontinue use and monitor for symptoms, which might take up to 30 days to manifest.
Symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, difficulty in sucking or feeding, drooping eyelids, a flat facial expression, and weakness in the extremities. This condition requires immediate medical attention, as 107 infants have reportedly been treated with a specific botulism medication since August.
Those who purchased ByHeart formula online can receive a full refund if it was bought on or after August 1.
