Babies Hospitalized with Botulism from Recalled Formula | November 2025

Parents across the country are facing a frightening warning. A nationwide formula recall has been issued after at least 15 babies were hospitalized with infant botulism, a rare but dangerous illness. The outbreak has been linked to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, and families are being urged to check their cans immediately. What feels like a routine feeding choice has suddenly turned into a matter of urgent safety.

Details of the Formula Recall

The recall covers specific lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula sold both online and in stores nationwide. Health officials say the formula may contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that cause botulism. These spores are invisible to the eye, but once inside a baby’s digestive system, they can grow and release toxins that attack the nervous system.

The affected lot codes include:

• 206VABP/251261P2 (Use by Dec. 1, 2026)
• 206VABP/251131P2 (Use by Dec. 1, 2026)

Families are being told to stop using these products right away and contact the company for a refund or replacement.

Parents can contact ByHeart directly at support@byheart.com or by calling 1‑855‑44BYHEART for refund and replacement instructions. Their “Help Center” website has been taken down at this time.

Understanding Infant Botulism

Infant botulism is rare, but it can be devastating. The illness begins quietly, often with constipation or a weak cry, and can progress to poor feeding and loss of head control. Parents may notice their baby seems unusually floppy or tired.

Treatment requires hospitalization and a special antitoxin delivered through an IV. While no deaths have been reported in this outbreak, the illness can cause paralysis if left untreated. Doctors stress that early recognition is key, and parents shouldn’t hesitate to seek medical care if they notice changes in their baby’s behavior or strength.

Families Impacted

Behind the statistics are real families living through the nightmare. One mother in Kentucky described the terror of seeing her four‑month‑old daughter rushed to the hospital after drinking the recalled formula. “You just feel helpless,” she said, explaining how quickly her baby’s condition worsened.

Another family in Arizona shared how their infant had to be flown by air ambulance to receive specialized treatment. For parents, the recall is more than a headline — it’s a reminder of how fragile everyday routines can be when safety is compromised.

Why This Recall Matters

Formula recalls aren’t common, and when they happen, they usually involve minor issues like labeling errors. This case is different. Infant botulism typically affects fewer than 200 babies in the U.S. each year. To see 15 cases across more than a dozen states in just a few months is unusual and deeply concerning.

The recall underscores how even trusted products can carry hidden risks. Parents rely on formula as a lifeline, especially when breastfeeding isn’t an option. That trust is shaken when something as serious as botulism enters the picture.

What Parents Should Do

Health officials are urging parents to take immediate action:

• Check formula cans for the recalled lot codes listed above
• Stop using the product right away, even if your baby seems fine
• Contact ByHeart for a refund or replacement
• Watch closely for symptoms such as constipation, weak cry, poor feeding, or loss of head control
• Seek medical care immediately if any of these signs appear

Acting quickly can make all the difference.

Bigger Picture

This recall is more than a single company’s problem. It’s a reminder of how fragile consumer trust can be when safety is compromised. Formula is one of the most carefully regulated products on the market, yet even here, mistakes can happen.

For parents, the lesson is clear: stay in the know about recalls, check products regularly, and don’t assume that “trusted” means “immune to problems.” A few minutes spent checking lot codes could prevent a medical emergency.

Finally: Act Fast

The formula recall linked to infant botulism is a wake‑up call for families everywhere. Parents are being asked to act fast, check their cans, and protect their babies. Feeding time should be safe and comforting, not a source of fear. This recall is a reminder that vigilance matters and that safety always comes first.