Additional Coverage:
- FDA calls out Walmart, Target and Kroger for still selling a product recalled in multiple states (marketrealist.com)
FDA Warns: Recalled Baby Formula Still on Shelves at Major Retailers
[City, State] – Despite a nationwide recall due to botulism concerns, the ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula continues to be found on store shelves at prominent retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Kroger, according to a recent report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This alarming discovery raises serious questions about consumer safety protocols and the effectiveness of product recalls.
The ByHeart formula was initially recalled after the FDA informed the company of botulism cases linked to the product. Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins that attack the body’s nerves and can be life-threatening, particularly for infants. While ByHeart initiated a recall from all stores, the FDA’s latest findings indicate a significant lapse in the removal of these potentially dangerous products.
The Miami Herald previously reported that the affected formula had been distributed internationally to numerous countries across South America, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, potentially escalating this into an international health crisis.
The FDA explicitly stated in its report, “FDA has received reports that recalled formula is still being found on store shelves in multiple states, including at multiple Walmart, Target, and Kroger locations, and at one or more Sprouts Organic Market, Safeway, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, and Star Market locations. FDA is working with state partners and retailers to ensure an effective recall and immediate removal of these products from store shelves across the country.”
Consumers are urged to be highly vigilant and to immediately avoid purchasing or using ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. If already purchased, the product should be disposed of immediately.
ByHeart has stated it is taking steps to address the issue, including investigating the source of the contamination. Third-party laboratory analysis of retained product samples at ByHeart’s facility confirmed the presence of Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium responsible for producing the botulism toxin.
However, the exact route of contamination into the baby formula remains under investigation. The FDA report added, “ByHeart states that it will continue to investigate these findings and perform ongoing testing to identify the source of contamination.”
This incident underscores the critical importance of robust recall procedures and retailer compliance to safeguard public health, especially when it concerns vulnerable populations like infants.