Executive Summary
- ByHeart has voluntarily recalled specific lots of its powdered infant formula due to a potential link to infant botulism.
- The recall follows a multistate outbreak involving 13 reported cases across 10 U.S. states.
- Health officials, including the FDA and West Virginia Department of Health, urge parents to stop using the recalled product immediately.
- Infant botulism is a serious illness; caregivers should watch for symptoms like muscle weakness and poor feeding and seek medical care if they appear.
Federal and state health officials are alerting parents and caregivers to a voluntary recall of ByHeart powdered infant formula following a multistate outbreak of infant botulism. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall, which was initiated after 13 cases of the rare but serious illness were reported across 10 states.
The West Virginia Department of Health (DH) confirmed that while no cases have been identified in the state, it is enhancing its surveillance activities. “Protecting the health of West Virginia infants and families is our highest priority,” said Dr. Mark McDaniel, Acting State Health Officer. He urged parents to immediately stop using any recalled formula and consult FDA guidance for checking lot numbers and safe disposal.
Infant botulism is caused by Clostridium botulinum spores and can lead to symptoms such as constipation, poor feeding, a weak cry, drooping eyelids, and overall muscle weakness. The Department of Health advises any parent who observes these symptoms in their infant to seek immediate medical care.
Official Guidance
Consumers are directed to the FDA’s official recall webpage for a complete list of affected lot numbers and instructions on how to handle the product. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides detailed information on infant botulism on its website. Parents can request a replacement for recalled products by following the company’s instructions.