Infant botulism outbreak answers and treatments
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – A botulism outbreak has affected 59 infants across 19 states since December 2023. The source? Contaminated baby formula linked to ByHeart products. These products have been pulled from the shelves while investigations are underway. Meanwhile, early detection and prompt medical care make a significant difference in recovery.
Botulism is a rare yet potentially deadly disease caused by Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that thrives in environments with little to no oxygen. While rare, it's crucial to understand its symptoms and risks for early detection and treatment.
According to the CDC, infant botulism happens when a baby swallows clostridium botulinum spores that grow in the gut and make toxin.
Symptoms to Watch
Infant botulism...
- Often starts with constipation
- Is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing)
- Another symptom is a weak and altered cry
- Infants will show a lack of head control
What to do?
- Check your formula immediately
- Know the early symptoms of infant botulism
- What to do if you suspect exposure
- How to reduce future risk
- Why staying informed matters
If you have purchased ByHeart formula since late 2023:
Inspect the lot number, expiration date, and packaging
Compare your product with the specific recall information posted by health authorities
Do not use any formula that is part of the recall
Throw it away or return it for a refund
Even if your baby appears healthy, stop using the product until you’ve confirmed it's safe.
Seek medical attention right away if your infant shows:
Unusual constipation
Weak crying or reduced movement
Poor feeding or difficulty sucking
Drooping eyelids or loss of facial expression
Noticeable decrease in alertness
These symptoms can develop gradually — trust your instincts and call your pediatrician if something feels off.
If you think your baby may have consumed contaminated formula:
Contact your pediatrician or a medical professional immediately
Save the remaining formula container — health departments may request it
Do not attempt at-home remedies; botulism requires professional medical care
Early treatment greatly improves outcomes.
While this outbreak is specific to ByHeart formula, caregivers can take steps to help protect infants from bacterial exposure in general:
Store formula exactly as directed
Avoid using expired or damaged containers
Wash bottles, nipples, and scoops thoroughly
Prepare formula with clean hands and sanitized equipment
Stay aware of new recall notices, especially involving infant foods
Infant formula recalls are uncommon, but when they occur, they can affect households nationwide. Awareness allows parents to:
Catch problems early
Avoid unsafe products
Prevent larger health risks
Help other parents by sharing what you know in the Youdle Community! Being aware can help protect your family's health. Stay informed about the products you buy and the health risks associated with them by subscribing to the Youdle newsletter.
Search the Youdle grocery finder for alternatives to dangeour products.
For more details on the outbreak from the CDC, click here.
