Recall Alert – ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
There is a current outbreak of botulism linked to powdered infant formula produced by ByHeart.
So far, 12 states (including Washington) have reported a total of 15 infants with suspected or confirmed cases of infant botulism. All of these infants consumed ByHeart brand powdered infant formula. All ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products have now been recalled. This includes unexpired formula cans and single-serve “anywhere” sticks. |
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This is an active investigation. For the most current updates, please see the CDC Food Safety Alert and FDA Outbreak Investigation of Infant Botulism.
- Parents and Caregivers should stop using any ByHeart infant formula products immediately.
- If a child consumed ByHeart formula and is experiencing symptoms (see below) seek immediate medical attention.
- If a child consumed ByHeart formula and is not currently showing symptoms, continue monitoring them and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
- If you still have the formula in your home, you should:
- take a photo or record the information on the bottom of the package.
- keep the container in a safe spot and be sure to label that product as DO NOT USE.
- If your child develops symptoms, your state health department might want to collect your formula container for testing. If your child does not develop symptoms after 30 days, throw your containers out.
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Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled formula using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
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Symptoms to watch for are:
- Poor feeding
- Loss of head control
- Difficulty swallowing
- Decreased facial expression
It can take several weeks for symptoms of infant botulism to develop, so parents and caretakers should remain vigilant if they used the recalled lots of infant formula.
Addressing Food Insecurity: Tips & Resources
You’ve likely heard about the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits disruptions across the country. In King County, that means more than 200,000 people, including children, families, and individuals who rely on SNAP for daily meals, have lost access to critical benefits that keep them nourished.
The CCHP’s registered dietitian created these tips for identifying and supporting children in your care who may be experiencing food insecurity:
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Notice signs of hunger and respond with kindness: Children experiencing food insecurity may seem tired, irritable, distracted, or complain of stomachaches. Offering a snack and a comforting word can help them feel better and stay engaged in the classroom.
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Understand the child’s behaviors with compassion: It’s common for children experiencing food insecurity to put food in their pockets or look for food in other places. These actions come from worrying about not having enough to eat.
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Offer reassurance about food availability: Gently remind the child that meals and snacks will always be provided during school hours. Encourage the child to eat their meal first and let them know they can have more if they are still hungry. Consistent reminders help ease their worries around food.
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Provide extra food when possible: When resources allow, offer second helpings or an additional snack if the child desires. At the same time, quietly remind them to listen to their body and pay attention to their hunger and fullness cues. This supports both emotional security and healthy eating habits.
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Send food home when available: If possible, provide the child with a small bag of healthy snacks or food items to keep in their backpack and take home. This can ease anxiety by giving them something familiar and reassuring outside of school or child care.
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Build trust though support and partnership: Children facing hunger and housing instability may feel unsafe or stressed. Show patience, offer comfort, and practice active listening to help them feel secure. Continue connecting with the child’s caregivers to share food bags and resources.
If it’s helpful, share the CCHP Food Resources for Families Flyer, which you can print and give to families. In addition, the newly published blog post, November SNAP Disruptions Drive Demand at King County Food Pantries, outlines what this disruption of services means for our region and where people can turn for help, or to help. It includes:
- Information for finding nearby food resources, such as local food pantries and meal programs by entering your address
- Helpful tips for first-time visitors
- Guidance on how community members can support through donations or volunteering
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