Infant Botulism Outbreak Linked to Recalled Baby Formula

A multistate outbreak of infant botulism has been linked to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, prompting a recall of two specific lots of the product. According to Food Safety News, the California Department of Public Health alerted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention after noting an increase in infant botulism cases associated with this formula.

Preliminary testing by the CDPH laboratory indicates the presence of the bacterium responsible for botulism in a sample from one of the affected lots. Parents are advised to stop using the formula immediately and to monitor their infants for symptoms such as constipation, difficulty feeding, and muscle weakness.

The recalled lots are 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2, with a use-by date of December 1, 2026. The formula was sold online and in various retail outlets, including Amazon, Kroger, Walmart, and Whole Foods, but accounts for less than one percent of all infant formula sales in the U.S., as per the FDA.

As of now, there are 13 suspected or confirmed cases of infant botulism across 10 states, including Arizona, California, Illinois, and Texas, with eight cases confirmed as toxin type A botulism. 7News Boston reports that all affected infants were hospitalized, but no fatalities have been reported.

The CDC is investigating the source of the contamination and potential effects on other products. The symptoms of infant botulism can take weeks to manifest, which underscores the need for vigilance among parents.

The CDPH has developed BabyBIG, the only FDA-approved treatment for infant botulism, which has been shown to reduce hospital stays and treatment costs significantly. Parents are urged to seek medical advice promptly if they observe any signs of illness in their infants after consuming the formula.

The CDC has emphasized the importance of cleaning surfaces and items that may have come into contact with the recalled formula, advising the use of hot, soapy water or a dishwasher for cleaning. This outbreak serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety and monitoring in public health, highlighting the potential dangers associated with foodborne illnesses in vulnerable populations like infants.

Health officials continue to work collaboratively to track and investigate these cases, aiming to protect the health of infants nationwide.