Similac Infant Formula Recall FAQs

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What formula brands are affected?

This recall only relates to the following Similac®, Alimentum®, and EleCare® powdered formula produce at the Abbott Nutrition plant in Sturgis, Michigan:

  • Similac PM 60/40 Lots # 27032K80 (can) and # 27032K800 (case)
  • Containers numbered with first two digits 22 through 37, AND contains K8, SH, or Z2, AND has an expiration date of April 1, 2022, or later.

You can check whether or not your formula was included in the recall on the Similac website. You can also find details of this recall and other infant formula recalls on the FDA website.

Is liquid baby formula included in the recall?

No. Only powdered formula is part of this recall, however, there are other recalls on infant formula, including liquid baby formula, that can be found on the FDA website.

What is cronobacter sakazakiiis?

Cronobacter sakazakiiis is a bacteria that can cause serious infections in babies, the elderly, and other immunocompromised populations. It can live in very dry places including in dry foods such as powdered infant formula.

What are the symptoms of a cronobacter sakazakiiis infection?

Cronobacter sakazakiiis can cause fever, excessive crying, fatigue, bowel damage, poor feeding leading to failure to thrive, seizures, sepsis, meningitis, and other serious problems. It can lead to lifelong damage and can be a fatal infection, especially in an infant.

What is salmonella newport?

Salmonella newport is a type of bacteria that affects the intestinal tract. It is typically transmitted to humans in contaminated water or food.

What are the symptoms of a salmonella newport infection?

A salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, vomiting, poor feeding, irritability, dehydration, cramps, and blood in an infant’s stool.

Was cronobacter sakazakiiis or salmonella found in the Sturgis plant?

Both the FDA inspection and Abbott’s own inspections found cronobacter sakazakiiis in areas of the Sturgis plant, however, it was only found in non-product contact areas of the facility and was not found in any product. Salmonella was not found in the facility or product testing and was removed from the FDA and CDC investigations.

How many children have died after consuming baby formula from the Abbott Sturgis plant?

It is unclear. Initially, the FDA only acknowledged two deaths and two illnesses reported in children who consumed the Abbott formula.  However, it is now known that the FDA received reports of at least 9 infants who died after consuming formula from the Sturgis plant. It is thought that there may be many more children who have become ill after consuming this formula.

What is the status of the FDA and CDC investigations?

The FDA and CDC investigations are now closed. Detailed information can be found on the FDA and CDC websites.

Is this case the same as the Similac/Enfamil NEC class action litigation?

No. The Similac/Enfamil NEC class action is a different and unrelated class action brought by the parents of premature babies who developed necrotizing enterocolitis after consuming Similac and Enfamil baby formula.

Is there a deadline for claims in the Similac recall litigation?

While the deadline for bringing a claim is different in each state, you typically only have two years to bring a claim for a defective product. If you think you may have a legal claim, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

What should I do if I think my child was sickened by Similac infant formula?

If your child is ill, you should contact your healthcare provider. Your child’s health is the first priority.

If you think your child consumed Similac formula and became ill, you may have a legal claim against Abbott. You should contact an experienced attorney such as the attorneys at Morris James to discuss your legal rights. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other expenses and losses.

DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.

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