On February 17, 2022, Abbott Nutrition announced a voluntary recall of powdered baby formula manufactured at its facility in Sturgis, Michigan. Brands of formula in the recall include Similac, Alimentum and EleCare. The same day, the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) announced that they were investigating several complaints related to the formula.
Why was the formula recalled?
The FDA received several complaints of bacterial infections in infants who ingested the formula. Specifically, there were three reports of Cronobacter sakazakii infections and one report of Salmonella Newport infection. All four cases led to hospitalizations and one led to death.
Symptoms of Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella Newport infections include diarrhea, irritability, vomiting, poor feeding, and blood in stool. Cronobacter sakazakii bacteria can cause life-threatening infections such as sepsis or meningitis. Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice, grunting breaths, and abnormal movements. Cronobacter sakazakii infection may also cause bowel damage and may spread through the blood to other parts of the body.
How do I know if I have recalled formula?
If you have Similac, Alimentum or EleCare, check the lot number on the bottom of the container. The following product codes are included in the recall:
- The first two digits of the code are 22 through 37, and
- The code contains K8, SH, or Z2, and
- The expiration date is April 1, 2022 (APR 2022) or later
What should I do if my baby has ingested recalled formula?
If you believe your infant has ingested recalled formula, here are some things you should do:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention for your child immediately.
- Check to see if the formula is included in the recall. Check the lot number and confirm on the Abbott website. Abbott Recall | Similac, Alimentum, EleCare Powder Formulas (similacrecall.com)
- Stop using the product altogether.
- Do not throw the product away. Store it in an out of reach place. If your baby is injured and you are interested in filing a personal injury lawsuit, the product will be used as evidence.
