San Diego County, December 4, 2025
San Diego County health officials are urging residents to dispose of all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula due to a nationwide infant botulism outbreak. As of December 4, 2025, there are 37 confirmed cases across 17 states, although no cases have been reported in San Diego County. All ByHeart formula products were recalled after several cases were linked to the brand. Parents are advised to check their homes for this product and take necessary precautions to ensure their infants’ health.
San Diego County Urges Residents to Discard ByHeart Baby Formula Amid Nationwide Botulism Outbreak
San Diego County health officials are advising residents to immediately dispose of all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products due to a nationwide outbreak of infant botulism.
As of December 4, 2025, the outbreak has resulted in 37 confirmed cases across 17 states, including California. While no cases have been reported in San Diego County, officials emphasize the importance of removing the product from homes and store shelves to prevent potential exposure.
ByHeart initiated a voluntary recall on November 8, 2025, for specific lots of its formula. The recall was expanded on November 11 to include all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, encompassing all lot numbers and package sizes, both cans and single-serve packets. The recalled products were distributed nationwide through various retailers, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Kroger.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness that primarily affects infants under six months old. Symptoms can appear as early as three days after exposure and may include constipation, poor feeding, weak crying, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing. If your infant exhibits any of these symptoms after consuming ByHeart formula, seek medical attention immediately.
Parents and caregivers are urged to check their homes for any unopened ByHeart formula and dispose of it promptly. If the formula has been opened and consumed, the FDA recommends photographing or recording the package details, including the brand and lot number, sealing it, labeling it as “do not use,” and storing it for 30 days in case health officials need it for testing.
San Diego County’s Department of Environmental Health and Quality has been collaborating with local retailers since the recall announcement to ensure the product is no longer available on store shelves. Residents are encouraged to report any remaining ByHeart formula products to local health authorities.
For more information, contact your healthcare provider or visit the California Department of Public Health’s website.
Key Facts About the ByHeart Baby Formula Recall
The importance of this recall cannot be overstated as it directly impacts the health and safety of San Diego’s youngest residents. With rising concerns over food safety regulations, local businesses must adhere to strict standards to protect consumers. Swift action by both government officials and retailers reflects a robust commitment to public health and safety.
How Residents Can Ensure Safety
Checking home inventory for the affected formula is a crucial step every parent should undertake. With such a widespread distribution, vigilance is key. Community and family support in promoting safety practices can strengthen local resilience against health threats. The proactive response by San Diego’s health officials is commendable; it represents the entrepreneurial spirit of community leadership working together to ensure well-being.
Supporting Local Health Initiatives
Engagement from residents in public health initiatives can galvanize local efforts to mitigate risks associated with foodborne illnesses. The cooperative measures taken by San Diego County’s Department of Environmental Health and Quality highlight how government agencies and private businesses can collaborate effectively. Encouraging a culture of safety in food production and sales helps foster a healthier community for all.
Conclusion
As the situation develops, the emphasis remains on disposals and reporting of any ByHeart formula found. The swift actions by health officials reinforce our community’s commitment to safety and resilience. Residents are urged to stay informed and involved, ensuring that we, as a community, are taking the right steps to protect our children and contribute to a prosperous San Diego economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current status of the ByHeart baby formula recall?
The recall has been expanded to include all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, encompassing all lot numbers and package sizes, both cans and single-serve packets. The recalled products were distributed nationwide through various retailers, including Amazon, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Kroger.
How many cases of infant botulism have been reported in San Diego County?
As of December 4, 2025, no cases of infant botulism have been reported in San Diego County.
What should parents and caregivers do if they have ByHeart formula at home?
Parents and caregivers are urged to check their homes for any unopened ByHeart formula and dispose of it promptly. If the formula has been opened and consumed, the FDA recommends photographing or recording the package details, including the brand and lot number, sealing it, labeling it as “do not use,” and storing it for 30 days in case health officials need it for testing.
What are the symptoms of infant botulism?
Symptoms can appear as early as three days after exposure and may include constipation, poor feeding, weak crying, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing. If your infant exhibits any of these symptoms after consuming ByHeart formula, seek medical attention immediately.
How can I report remaining ByHeart formula products in San Diego County?
Residents are encouraged to report any remaining ByHeart formula products to local health authorities. For more information, contact your healthcare provider or visit the California Department of Public Health’s website.
Key Features of the ByHeart Baby Formula Recall
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recall Scope | All ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, including all lot numbers and package sizes, both cans and single-serve packets. |
| Distribution | Nationwide, through various retailers such as Amazon, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods, and Kroger. |
| Number of Cases | 37 confirmed cases of infant botulism across 17 states, including California, as of December 4, 2025. |
| San Diego County Status | No cases reported as of December 4, 2025. |
| Symptoms of Infant Botulism | Constipation, poor feeding, weak crying, loss of head control, and difficulty swallowing. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. |
| FDA Recommendations | Dispose of unopened ByHeart formula. For opened containers, photograph or record package details, seal, label as “do not use,” and store for 30 days for potential testing. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
