Updated November 12, 2025
The CDC has reported an outbreak of 15 cases of infant botulism associated with recalled infant formula. Infant botulism is a disease that happens when spores from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria are swallowed and begin to infect the baby’s intestines. Swallowed spores are typically not a concern for adults.
- All 15 cases were associated with the same product: ByHeart Inc Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
- This product was widely distributed, including in the state of Washington
- Cases have currently been reported in 10 different states, including Washington
- All ByHeart Inc Whole Nutrition Infant Formula lots have been recalled
If you own any of the recalled formula, you should record the lot number, throw away the formula, and wash surfaces which the formula might have touched with hot, soapy water.
If you own the recalled formula and your baby is acting normally, you do not need to see a physician, but do watch your baby closely for any of the signs of botulism listed below.
Signs of infant botulism:
- Constipation (can be difficult to tell apart from typical infant constipation)
- Difficulty feeding and swallowing
- Weak cry, different than usual
- Floppiness (new difficulty hold up head or moving limbs)
- Decreased facial expressions
Infant botulism can take days or weeks to develop. If your baby develops any signs which concern you for potential infant botulism, please seek care with a healthcare professional. There is a treatment for infant botulism, and it is more effective the earlier it is given!
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You can always call us at 1-800-222-1222 if you have questions or concerns. Our staff of nurses, pharmacists, and doctors are here for you, 24/7/365.