The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a health advisory yesterday regarding a nationwide outbreak of infant botulism linked to powdered infant formula (ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula). As of November 10, fifteen infants with confirmed or suspected infant botulism have been identified across 12 states, including one infant from Los Angeles County. Illness onset dates range from mid-August to the present. All infants were hospitalized and received BabyBIG® (Botulism Immune Globulin Intravenous medication). No deaths have been reported.

Per the U.S. Food and Drug administration (FDA), all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products have been recalled as of November 11, 2025. This includes all unexpired lots of formula cans and single-serve “anywhere” sticks (see FDA Outbreak Investigation of Infant Botulism: Infant Formula).

Infant botulism symptoms can take up to 30 days to develop after exposure. Early symptoms include:

Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for infant botulism. If suspected, contact the CDPH Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program (IBTPP) immediately at 510-231-7600 (available 24/7) for consultation and release of BabyBIG®.

You can also copy and paste this link into your browser: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/CAHAN/Outbreak-of-Infant-Botulism-Linked-to-ByHeart-Infant-Formula.aspx.