ByHeart expands formula recall as FDA links it to 15 infant botulism cases

CHARLOTTE — A suspected case of infant botulism in North Carolina may be tied to a nationwide formula recall.

ByHeart Inc. pulled its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula from the market Saturday. As of Tuesday, the company expanded the recall to include all ByHeart formula nationwide, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA says it’s tied to 15 cases of infant botulism in 12 states.

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The FDA says all 15 infants were hospitalized after consuming formula from two lots: 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2.

North Carolina is investigating a suspected case in one infant.

Symptoms can include poor feeding, inability to control their head, trouble swallowing and decreased facial expression.

According to a release from the Mecklenburg County Health Department, symptoms of infant botulism can take several weeks to develop, so parents who have used the recalled formula should remain vigilant for any signs of the illness.

If infant botulism is suspected, clinicians should begin treatment as soon as possible after consulting with the Infant Botulism Treatment and Protection Program at 510-231-7600.

Local health authorities, such as Mecklenburg County Public Health or the state Communicable Disease Branch, should also be notified.

Parents are advised not to use the recalled formula and to thoroughly clean any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with it using hot soapy water or a dishwasher. It is recommended that families record the lot number or take a picture of the product before disposal or return.

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