An outbreak of infant botulism has been traced to the formula
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ByHeart infant formula that has been recalled in relation to an outbreak of infant botulism is still on sale in Michigan, according to state officials.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported that it has found the recalled formula on shelves at “surplus and distressed food sales locations.”
“Distressed food retailers are discount, salvage, or outlet stores that sell food items removed from traditional supermarkets due to issues including near-expiration dates, dented cans, damaged packaging, or overstock. The recalled formula has been included in liquidation food boxes sold by reclamation food distributors, and subsequently on store shelves for purchase,” according to a warning issued by the department.
The department is urging families who have the recalled formula to throw it away. For more information on the FDA recall, visit the agency’s website.
“Our inspectors have addressed these critical safety issues with specific retailers and distributors where problems have been found,” said Jennifer Bonsky, Human Food Division director. “Given there isn’t a uniform tracking system for sales and distribution of reclaimed products, (our department) is urging all surplus food, distressed food, or food reclamation stores to be extra diligent and ensure these products aren’t being taken home by Michigan families.”
All ByHeart infant formula products were recalled in November 2025 after it was linked to an outbreak of infant botulism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared the outbreak to be over with 48 babies having been hospitalized with infections.
Bill Marler, a food safety attorney, said it is beyond belief that the recalled formula is still available.
“Four months after the recall to be finding the product on sale is beyond stupid. It’s criminal,” Marler said.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness that occurs when Clostridium botulinum spores are ingested and then colonize the intestinal tract, producing botulinum neurotoxins in the immature gut of infants. Symptoms of infant botulism, which is diagnosed clinically, can take as long as several weeks to develop following formula ingestion. If your child has consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and is experiencing signs and symptoms of botulism such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or decreased facial expression, seek immediate medical attention.
Coral Beach
Managing Editor Coral Beach is a print journalist with more than 35 years experience as a reporter and editor for daily newspapers, trade publications and freelance clients including the Kansas City Star and Independence Examiner.
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