Baby Formula Recalled In RI Over Contamination With Deadly Bacteria

RHODE ISLAND — Byheart has recalled five batches of its baby formula, sold nationwide, including in the Ocean State, the Rhode Island Department of Health said Monday.

The recall is over cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii, a potentially deadly 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 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.

Cronobacter bacteria can cause life-threatening infections like 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.

A ByHeart spokesperson said the company is taking this precautionary measure because one test sample collected from a 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 about illnesses/

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 C. 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 notices@byheart.com or text ByHeart at 1-909-506-2354.