Abbott Nutrition is voluntarily recalling three types of their infant formula which caused four babies to become sick with bacterial infections (Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella Newport infections) after consuming the products. The formulas being recalled are for select lots of Similac, Similac PM, Alimentum and EleCare formulas.
The FDA is currently investigating the situation; so far all reported cases have been linked to powdered infant formulas manufactured from Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis, Michigan facility. For the time being, the FDA is advising consumers to avoid purchasing or using Similac, Similac PM, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas if:
- The first two digits of the code on the bottom of the container are 22 through 37; and
- The code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; and
- The expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later
Note: Similac formula samples from PANW are not currently included in this recall. However, out of an abundance of caution, our Abbott Nutrition representative has recommended that patients not use any of the Similac samples provided as they were produced from the Michigan facility.
Symptoms to Look For
Cronobacter bacteria can cause sepsis (severe infections) or meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and spine). Symptoms of Cronobacter infection in babies will usually start with a fever and poor feeding, crying, or very low energy. Some babies may also have seizures. Additional symptoms include irritability, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), and grunting breaths.
Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. If you have used any of the affected formulas and are noticing symptoms in your baby, please contact our offices immediately.
Additional Recall and Refund Information
Families can visit Similacrecall.com to type in the code on the bottom of their formula package or call 1-800-986-8540 and follow the instructions provided. If you have an affected product, Abbott will refund you. Please contact Abbott directly for refunds.
