Baby Formula Recall Expands After Second Baby Dies

Check your formula for the specific lot number.

©istockphoto.com/Ridofranz

The US Food and Drug Administration announced that Abbott Nutrition has expanded a recall of powdered baby formula following the death of a second infant. The FDA said health officials are investigating another illness due to Cronobacter sakazakii infection. The dangerous germ can cause blood infections and other serious complications.

Officials say the infant reportedly consumed Abbott Nutrition’s Similac PM 60/40 with a lot code 27032K800 prior to contracting the illness. The previous recall including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan, one of the company’s manufacturing facilities, did not include Similac PM. On Monday, the FDA announced that Similac PM cans and cases were recalled.

So far there have been four reports of Cronobacter sakazakii infections in infants and one complaint of a Salmonella Newport infection in an infant. The agency said that Cronobacter may have contributed to death in two patients.

Abbott Nutrition said they are recalling Similac PM 60/40 powdered infant formula with Lot # 27032K80 (can) / Lot # 27032K800 (case) after learning of the second baby’s death. The formula was distributed for sale in the United States and in Israel and has an expiration date of April 1, 2022 or later.

Liquid baby formulas are not included in the recall, and consumers are advised to continue using product that has not been recalled. More information is available at Similacrecall.com.

According to the FDA, Conrobacter bacteria can cause life-threatening infections or meningitis. Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis can include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, yellowed-skin or eyes, grunting breaths and abnormal movements.

If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms, call your health care provider.

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