Baby Formula Recall: What Parents Should Know

Parents across the country are being urged to check their baby formula supplies. A specific brand, ByHeart, has been recalled due to contamination with a harmful bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria can cause infant botulism, a serious illness that has already hospitalized over 30 babies since August. The recall was issued after lab tests confirmed the presence of the bacteria in some ByHeart formula samples. Despite the recall, stores in several states are still selling the contaminated product. In Oregon, nearly 10% of stores checked still had the formula on their shelves. Minnesota and Arizona also reported finding the recalled product in some locations. Health officials are working to investigate the source of the contamination. The FDA has inspected ByHeart's manufacturing facilities, but results are not yet available. In the meantime, parents are advised to stop using the formula immediately and write "DO NOT USE" on the container. Botulism can cause severe symptoms in babies, including paralysis and breathing difficulties. Symptoms may take up to 30 days to appear, so parents are asked to keep the formula for at least one month in case testing is needed. The CDC recommends cleaning any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula. ByHeart formula was sold nationwide at major retailers like Target and Walmart. Walmart has removed the product and is offering refunds. California has set up a hotline to assist families affected by the recall.