What to know about the Abbott baby formula recall

Erica Thompson, The Columbus Dispatch
·2 min read
Some Similac infant formula cans have been recalled, including the cans sent to a Memphis reporter's home.
Some Similac infant formula cans have been recalled, including the cans sent to a Memphis reporter's home.

Stores and parents are contending with a limited formula selection following a voluntary recall of Abbott powder formulas—including specific lots of Similac, Similac PM 60/40, Alimentum and EleCare.

More: Parents struggle to find infant formula following Abbott product recall

The affected products are tied to Abbott’s manufacturing facility in Sturgis, Michigan. Two rounds of recalls were made in February following customer complaints related to bacteria known as Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport in infants who had consumed powder formula made in that facility.

Two infants have died, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but the causes of their infections have not been determined.

The cases are under investigation, and no link to the formula has been made, said Kim Modory, a senior director of public affairs at Abbott.

Is my baby formula affected by the recall?

Parents are encouraged to check the lot numbers on the bottom of formula containers to determine if they are included in the recall.

Recall database: See if any of your products are currently under a recall

Impacted lots will have a number starting with the first two digits 22 through 37; contain K8, SH, or Z2; and include an expiration date of April 1, 2022, or later (i.e. L31465SH00). The affected Similac PM 60/40 will be labeled 27032K80 (can) or 27032K800 (case).

Select Abbott Nutrition infant formula is being recalled. Here is what to look for to see if you have the recalled product.
Select Abbott Nutrition infant formula is being recalled. Here is what to look for to see if you have the recalled product.

Where do I find more information?

More information can be found at similacrecall.com or by calling 800-986-8540.

Is there bacteria in the formula?

Evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii was found in the plant in non-product contact areas, according to the Abbott website. No evidence of Salmonella Newport was found.

And no distributed products tested positive for either of the bacteria.

What do I do if I notice symptoms in my child?

If parents notice these symptoms in their babies, they should contact their health care provider, who also can suggest alternatives to the recalled Abbott products.

Are there alternative formula options?

Yes, there are different brands, but they are running out quickly, too, since so many families have had to change brands.

You can also reach out to milk banks, often nonprofit organizations that provide breast milk to families who need it.

Clients will need to purchase the alternate formula that corresponds with their current formula.
Clients will need to purchase the alternate formula that corresponds with their current formula.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Abbott baby formula recall: What to know about affected products