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Federal and state health officials are investigating a multi-state outbreak of infant botulism linked to a popular organic baby formula, prompting a recall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have connected 13 cases of infant botulism across 10 states to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. All 13 infants were hospitalized, though no deaths have been reported.
In response, ByHeart Inc. has voluntarily recalled two specific lots of its formula. The affected products are from lots 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/2511, which were distributed nationally. The investigation began after health officials identified a common link among infants who had fallen ill since August. The details of the infant botulism outbreak investigation are being closely monitored by federal agencies.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious gastrointestinal condition caused by ingesting spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which then grow in the gut and release toxins. Symptoms can include constipation, poor feeding, a weakened cry, lethargy, and muscle weakness. The Illinois Department of Public Health announced that two infants in the state who consumed the formula presented with symptoms of botulism, highlighting the severity of the situation. Consumers are urged to check any ByHeart formula they may have against the recalled lot numbers.
Health authorities advise parents and caregivers to immediately stop using formula from the recalled batches. The FDA has stated that any remaining product should be discarded. Parents whose infants have consumed the recalled organic baby formula and are showing any symptoms of botulism should seek immediate medical attention. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the source of the contamination within the manufacturing process. ByHeart stated it is fully cooperating with the FDA's inquiry into the botulism cases linked to the formula.
