The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) has issued an urgent recall for all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products due to a potential contamination risk with Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that can cause serious illness in infants. This expanded recall affects both the 24-ounce cans and the 0.6-ounce individual-serve packets of the formula. The DOH’s warning is crucial for all parents and caregivers who may have purchased these items.
Infant botulism, while rare, poses significant health risks, including symptoms such as constipation, poor feeding, and respiratory difficulties. The DOH emphasizes the importance of monitoring infants for any signs of illness, particularly if they have consumed the affected formula recently. Parents are advised to immediately discontinue use of all ByHeart products.
Stores Act to Remove Affected Products
In response to the recall, local retailers, including Target and Safeway, are working closely with the DOH to remove the compromised products from their shelves. This swift action follows an investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) into ByHeart and its infant formula offerings, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.
If consumers have purchased any of the recalled products, the DOH recommends disposing of them right away. Additionally, it is advised to thoroughly sanitize any feeding supplies that may have come into contact with the formula using hot, soapy water.
Guidance for Concerned Parents
For parents seeking further information or assistance, the DOH encourages reaching out to ByHeart Inc. directly. They can be contacted via email at [email protected] or through their 24/7 hotline at 1-833-429-4327. ByHeart is expected to provide guidance on next steps, including information about obtaining refunds for the recalled products.
This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants. The DOH continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.