Byheart Issues Infant Formula Cronobacter Recall

PROVIDENCE, RI — Byheart has issued a formula Cronobacter recall for five batches of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula due to a potential cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii, the Rhode Island Department of Health RIDOH reports. 

“We are reaching out to you today to let you know that, out of an abundance of caution, we have chosen to voluntarily recall five batches of our ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula due to concern of potential cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii,” Byheart wrote on its website announcing the recall.

The product being recalled is ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, Milk Based Powder with Iron for 0-12 Months in 24 oz containers (see image of label attached). The formula under recall was distributed directly to consumers 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.

RIDOH reports that ByHeart owns its entire manufacturing supply chain with the exception of final canning, which is done by a third-party packager. 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, this recall is happening for all product produced during the entire production run.

To date, Byheart has not received any consumer complaints that would indicate any illnesses. (Illness complaints are an early detection of safety concerns.)

Customers who purchased ByHeart product should check the bottom of the can and dispose of product from batches 22273 C1, 22276 C1, 22277 C1, 22278 C1, and 22280 C1. ByHeart has set up a webpage with additional information about its measures. Should customers have any other questions or want to find out if the product they have is included in the voluntary recall, they should email [email protected] or text ByHeart at 1-909-506-2354. The company will also be reaching out directly to all customers via email who purchased orders from these identified batches.

ABOUT CHRONOBACTER 

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.