Byheart Recalls Infant Formula Due to Possible Health Risk

ByHeart, a baby nutrition company, announced December 11 that it has chosen to voluntarily recall five batches of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula due to the potential for cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii. No distributed ByHeart product has tested positive for the bacteria.

The product being recalled is ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, Milk Based Powder with Iron for 0-12 Months in 24-oz containers. The formula under voluntary recall was distributed directly to consumers in the US and can be identified by the number on the bottom of the can. Recalled product batches are 22273 C1, 22276 C1, 22277 C1, 22278 C1, and 22280 C1, printed with use by 01 JAN 24 or 01JUL 24.

Cronobacter bacteria can cause severe, life-threatening infections (sepsis) or meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and spine). Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis may include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice (yellow skin and whites of the eyes), grunting breaths, and abnormal movements. Cronobacter infection may also cause bowel damage and may spread through the blood to other parts of the body.

This recall is not related to ByHeart’s own manufacturing in any way. The company had not received any consumer complaints that would indicate any illness. 

ByHeart owns its entire manufacturing supply chain with the exception of final canning, which is conducted by a reputable third-party packager. ByHeart is taking this precautionary measure because one test sample collected from the third-party packaging facility tested positive for Cronobacter sakazakii. All product packaged that day, and the first production on the next day, was isolated for destruction and not distributed. Out of an abundance of caution, the company is recalling all product produced during the entire production run.

ByHeart’s manufacturing facility in Reading, PA, continues to operate 24/7, and the company is committed to providing customers formula in January.