Organic Baby Formula Linked to Botulism Outbreak, Families Sue

In November 2025, the parents of at least two babies sickened in an infantile botulism outbreak have filed lawsuits against the makers of the ByHeart baby formula. Stephen and Yurany Dexter, of Flagstaff, Arizona, say their 4-month-old daughter Rose had to be flown by air ambulance to a children's hospital and treated for several weeks. Similarly, Michael and Hanna Everett, of Richmond, Kentucky, say their 4-month-old daughter Piper was rushed to the hospital with worsening symptoms of the rare and potentially deadly disease.

The lawsuits allege that the ByHeart formula the babies consumed was defective and that the company was negligent in selling it. Both families say they bought the organic formula to provide a natural, healthier alternative, and were shocked by the suffering their children endured. Investigations into more potential botulism cases are ongoing after ByHeart recalled all of its formula nationwide on Tuesday. At least 84 U.S. babies have been treated for infantile botulism since August, including those in the outbreak.

The lawsuits filed could be the first of many legal actions against ByHeart, which the company says it will address "in due course." For now, the company remains focused on ensuring families are aware of the recall and have accurate information. The two babies are now recovering on different formulas, but their ordeal highlights the serious risks posed by tainted baby products.