Retail Giants Criticized for Delayed Removal of Contaminated Baby Formula
Federal health authorities have issued warnings to four major retail chains for their slow response in removing potentially hazardous infant formula linked to a botulism outbreak. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) highlighted these concerns in letters made public on Monday.
FDA’s Warning to Retailers
The FDA addressed letters to executives at Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Albertsons, pointing out that these companies continued to sell ByHeart infant formula well after a recall was announced on November 11. This recall was initiated following reports of over 50 infants falling ill across 19 states.
“As a key player in the supply chain, your company must act swiftly and effectively upon receiving a recall notice,” the FDA emphasized in its December 12 letters, which were shared online this week.
Instances of Continued Sales
Despite the recall, ByHeart formula was discovered in Target stores across 20 states. Notably, a New Hampshire Target sold the product on November 16, even though an electronic sales block was in place. Additionally, a Target in Arkansas promoted the formula with a discount from November 16 to 22.
Reports from state and local health officials revealed that Walmart had the formula on shelves in 21 states from November 12 to 26. Albertsons and Kroger also continued sales in multiple states during the same period.
Retailers’ Responses
The FDA noted that the companies have yet to provide evidence of corrective measures, despite repeated requests. They have been given 15 business days to respond.
Walmart stated that no ByHeart formula was sold after implementing a sales block post-recall. “We acted quickly to restrict sales and remove the product from our stores and online platforms,” a spokesperson explained.
Albertsons assured that they collaborated with suppliers and regulators to remove the products and inform customers. “ByHeart products have been cleared from our shelves,” the company confirmed.
Impact on Affected Infants
All infants affected by the outbreak have been hospitalized and treated with intravenous medication to halt the disease’s progression. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded the outbreak’s scope to include all infants treated for botulism after consuming ByHeart formula since its 2023 launch.
Criticism of FDA’s Response
Steven Mandernach, executive director of the Association of Food and Drug Officials, criticized the FDA for its delayed communication with state and local food safety officials. The agency did not fully disseminate product lists until November 14, nearly a week after the initial recall.
“In a situation involving the primary nutrition source for vulnerable infants, the urgency to remove the product from the market was lacking,” Mandernach remarked.
