The FDA has issued warning letters to Walmart, Target, Kroger and Albertsons after finding the retailers continued selling recalled baby formula tied to a nationwide outbreak of infant botulism—even after being formally notified of the recall.
According to FDA letters dated December 12, the retailers kept ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula on store shelves weeks after the recall began in November. Inspectors found the recalled products in stores across at least 21 states, with some retailers reportedly offering discounts on the formula during the recall period.
The recall is linked to an outbreak of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by Clostridium botulinum spores. As of last week, the CDC reported 51 infants sickened across 19 states.
George Washington University experts are available to discuss what parents should know. If you would like to schedule an interview, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, katelyn [dot] deckelbaum
gwu [dot] edu (katelyn[dot]deckelbaum[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Monika Goyal is an associate professor of pediatrics at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Ashley Darcy-Mahoney is a dedicated neonatal nurse practitioner, researcher, and educator. Throughout her career, she has been at the forefront of advancing nursing research, education, and practice, with a specific focus on neonatology, infant health, and developmental pediatrics.
Jennifer Walsh is a clinical assistant professor in the GW School of Nursing and primarily teaches pediatrics and health assessment, while also teaching various labs and clinicals.
-GW-