SAIPAN – The Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation has confirmed that no recalled ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula has been found in stores across Saipan, Tinian, or Rota following inspections prompted by an ongoing U.S. Food and Drug Administration investigation into potential botulism contamination.
The CHCC Environmental Health Disease and Prevention Program, working with guidance from the FDA and assistance from the Women, Infant and Children Program, conducted a thorough assessment of retail locations throughout the Commonwealth after ByHeart initiated a voluntary recall of all batches of its infant formula products. The inspections found no affected products in stock or on store shelves in the CNMI.
However, health officials are urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant, particularly those who purchase products online or outside of the Commonwealth. The recall encompasses all batches of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula cans and Anywhere Packs due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for botulism.
Tthe FDA’s investigation remains ongoing, though reports of cases linked to this outbreak have slowed. No cases have been reported in the CNMI.
Clostridium botulinum produces a potent neurotoxin during bacterial growth that causes botulism, a life-threatening disease. The neurotoxin is among the most toxic substances known, with even microscopic amounts capable of causing illness or death. In infants, botulism initially presents as constipation, followed by poor feeding, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing. The condition can progress to difficulty breathing and respiratory arrest if left untreated.
The CHCC is strongly advising parents and caregivers not to feed their children ByHeart Infant Formula. Consumers who have purchased ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula cans or Anywhere Packs should immediately discontinue use and dispose of the product, even though the affected product was not found in local stores.
CHCC thanks wholesale and food distributors for their continued partnership and cooperation in keeping the community healthy and safe. The voluntary recall applies to all batches of ByHeart products, with no exceptions.
Parents and caregivers with questions or concerns can contact the Environmental Health Disease and Prevention Program office at (670) 236-2022, 236-2027, or 236-2028.
