BABY FORMULA CONTAMINATION LEADS TO MULTI BRAND RECALL
Abbott Laboratories, the manufacturer behind the baby powdered formula brands Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare, is facing a growing number of lawsuits due to possible bacterial contamination of their products. The recall was announced on February 17, 2022 by Abbott stating that the formulas may have been contaminated with Cronobacter sakazakiiis or Salmonella during the manufacturing process. Products made at the Sturgis, Michigan facility can be found across the U.S. and were likely exported to other countries.
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
At this point, there has been four reports of infants who were hospitalized after drinking the formula, including one who died. The illnesses were reported in the states of Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas. One of the cases involved salmonella and three involved Cronobacter sakazakii, a rare, but dangerous germ that can cause blood infections (sepsis) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord) as well as and other serious complications. Those who are infected with salmonella usually develop fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps either hours or a couple days after exposure. Most adults can recover without any treatment, however; babies can become seriously ill and have the infection spread throughout the body.
Parents and caregivers who have fed these products to their infants and notice any symptoms, should notify their child’s healthcare provider immediately. The FDA also recommends continuing monitoring their infant’s health if they have already ingested any of the products. No one’s health and overall wellbeing should be at risk by the consumption of a product found on store shelves. Especially when it is an innocent baby trying to grow and develop. If your child was harmed as a result of the negligence of this baby formula manufacturer, please contact us immediately.
We aim to hold these companies accountable and help you receive the compensation you and your family deserve.
Please give us a call at (888) 420-1299 for a free consultation or if you have any questions regarding the recall.