Baby Formula Recalled In CT; 13 Infant Botulism Cases Reported In U.S.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health is alerting parents and caregivers about a voluntary recall of infant formula following a multi-state outbreak of botulism. ByHeart is recalling its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, which is sold online and at major retailers nationwide.

Thirteen infant botulism cases have been reported in 10 states. No cases have been reported in Connecticut. However, the Department of Public Health is "monitoring the situation and is alerting hospitals and healthcare providers statewide," according to a statement.

The two lots of ByHeart formula recalled by the federal Food and Drug Administration are: 206VABP/251261P2 (“Use by 01 Dec 2026”) and 206VABP/251131P2 (“Use by 01 Dec 2026”).

The lot code and "use by" date are located on the bottom of the infant formula can. Parents and caregivers should stop using any recalled formula and throw it away.

"Infant botulism is a medical emergency. Most babies fully recover with prompt treatment, though hospitalization is typically required," Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani said in a statement. "Babies' digestive systems are still developing and lack the protective intestinal bacteria that largely prevents issues in older children and adults. After age one, the risk drops significantly. During this recall, prompt recognition and medical care is essential to protect your little ones."

Symptoms often start with constipation and difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing), a weak and altered cry, and loss of muscle tone.

Botulism is treated with an antitoxin administered at the hospital. Parents and caregivers should seek medical care immediately if an infant shows signs of illness, the department said.

If untreated, infants with botulism experience progressive weakness that can lead to paralysis, breathing difficulties, and death.

States that have reported botulism cases include Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Texas, according to the FDA. No deaths have been reported in the current outbreak.

"FDA’s investigation is ongoing to determine the point of contamination and if any additional products are impacted," the FDA wrote.

A statement from ByHeart said government tests and its own had yet to turn up botulism in its product, according to NBC. The company said it "is taking the proactive step to remove any potential risk from the market and ensure the highest level of safety for infants.”

More information about botulism is available from the CDC by clicking here.