West Virginia (CNN) The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent warning letters to several retailers for not removing recalled baby formula from their shelves.
In early November, the FDA recalled ByHeart baby formula because of a large outbreak of infant botulism.
The agency stated that it had communicated repeatedly with Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons, but none of the companies responded.
As of December 10, 51 children from 19 states have either suspected or confirmed cases of infant botulism after exposure to the product.
All 51 children have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
By-heart says it is investigating the cause of the contamination.
Botulism exposure is rare but potentially fatal, leading to constipation, weakness, breathing problems, and respiratory arrest.
Visit fda.gov for more information.
