Similac Powder Formula Recall Due to Bacterial Contamination
In January 2022, Abbott Nutrition in the US recalled certain infant formulas in powdered form, such as Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare, produced at their Sturgis, Michigan facility. The recall was conducted after reports of bacterial infections in infants who consumed the products resulted in hospitalization and, in a few instances, death. The Similac recall specifically impacted products contaminated with Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella bacteria, which posed significant health risks to vulnerable infants. As a result, parents were advised to stop using these formulas immediately and check the product codes to determine if their purchased formulas were affected.
The Contaminants: Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella
The main concern issue was Cronobacter sakazakii contamination, a bacterium associated with serious infant infection, such as meningitis and sepsis. In one case that was already reported, the infant had died after ingesting contaminated Similac PM 60/40 infant formula that contained the pathogen. Cases of contamination were reported with Salmonella Newport, though less commonly.
Affected Products
The recall was for certain lots of powder formulas produced from February to September 2021. Affected products can be identified by their product code and expiration date on the container bottom. Recalled products will be:
1. First two digits of code 22 to 37
2. Code on the container with K8, SH, or Z2
3. Expiration date on or later than April 1, 2022
Health Risks to Infants
These infections are said to infect young children and infants mostly, and most often, less than two months, premature, and with immunity-compromised persons. The infected ones with bacteria can show signs of fever, intolerance to feeding, irritability, somnolence, and gastrointestinal disease. Parents should seek medical attention immediately if they feel that their child has been fed contaminated milk and shows some or all of the aforementioned symptoms.
Investigation and Plant Shutdown
After the recall, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiated an investigation of Abbott's Sturgis facility. The agency found evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii in parts of the plant where product contact was not intended, alongside other sanitation issues. The facility was later temporarily closed down, which is responsible for producing the majority of the nation's infant formula stock.
Legal Actions and Ongoing Lawsuits
A series of lawsuits immediately followed against Abbott Nutrition. In August 2024, a judge permitted a judge to sue the company when the baby passed away after ingesting the contaminated Similac formula at 13 days old. These lawsuits are a testament to the tragedy that has happened due to the contamination and ongoing uncertainty of baby formula safety.