TOPEKA – Yesterday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it is investigating complaints of infant illness related to products from Abbott’s Nutrition’s Sturgis, MI facility. Three brands of powdered infant formula were recalled for possible Cronobacter contamination. As a result of the ongoing investigation the FDA is alerting consumers to avoid purchasing or using certain powdered infant formula products produced at this facility.
The FDA is advising consumers not to use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas if:
- the first two digits of the code 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.
Abbott has initiated a voluntary recall of certain powdered infant formulas. Products made at the Sturgis facility can be found across the United States and were likely exported to other countries as well. Individuals can find more information about how to return the product directly to Abbott by using the Product Recall tool.
Cronobacter infections are rare, but they can be deadly in newborns. Infections in infants usually occur in the first days or weeks of life. About two to four cases are reported to CDC every year, but this figure may not reflect the true number of illnesses because most hospitals and laboratories are not required to report Cronobacter infections to health departments.
The first symptom of Cronobacter infection in infants is usually a fever, accompanied by poor feeding, crying, or very low energy. Infants with these symptoms should be immediately evaluation by a health care provider.
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