Caring for your baby is one of the most special times in life. And keeping them safe is paramount. The last thing you want is to have to worry about whether they’re in danger from the very food that gives them life. As a consumer, it’s important to be aware of what you nourish your child with, and check in when something’s amiss. Abbott Nutrition recently recalled some of their infant formula after consumer complaints about infection. Here’s what you need to know.
Abbott Nutrition is a company that produces products that, according to them, are designed to “help patients live a healthier and better life.” Their product line includes supplements and aids like Pedialyte, Pediasure, Similac, and others.
After multiple consumer complaints about Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella infections, Abbott recalled certain infant formula produced in their Sturgis, Michigan, facility. Recalled formulas can be linked to five serious cases of infection in infants. Two of the affected infants died.
The FDA has found in their investigation that Abbott didn’t take steps to avoid contamination in their production space. They also didn’t ensure that the surfaces in the plant that touched the product remained properly maintained to prevent contamination, according to the findings.
Cronobacter bacteria can cause life-threatening infection that causes inflammation throughout the body, transported in the bloodstream (sepsis). It can also cause meningitis. Look for symptoms like jaundice, abnormal movements, grunting breaths, trouble eating, and irritability.
Salmonella are bacteria that cause stomach and digestive upset, along with fever. This type of infection can also be fatal. Keep watch for elevated temperatures, diarrhea, stomach cramps, a rash, blood or urine in stool, and fatigue.
Their voluntary product recall included items like Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered formulas. Products made at the Sturgis, Michigan, factory can be found nationwide in the United States, and also likely in other countries. The Canadian government has also put out a recall warning.
The products in question include ones with the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; and the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.
For more information on the recalled lots and where to find out if products you’ve used have been affected, you can look up product information on the Abbott Nutrition website, or find more from the FDA.
Check your products to see if they’ve been recalled. If so, stop using them immediately. The FDA advises that consumers shouldn’t make homemade formula or dilute infant formula. If you aren’t able to feed your child their typical formula, get in touch with their healthcare provider to find an alternative.
If you think your baby might have fallen ill because of the recalled formula, the next step is to contact your healthcare provider and seek the care they need. Be sure to document the process. Then reach out to an attorney. You may be entitled to compensation in a product liability case.
The counsel at Cok Kinzler can help you navigate this tricky recall landscape, so you can focus on what matters most: your family. Get in touch for your free consultation.