(4), Thats why theres also a shortage in the store brands like. (1)(2), Parents are advised to check the packaging of their Similac powdered formulas. Why did the FDA not spring into action? (16), Recalled Baby Formula Accidentally Sold In Canada, The first two digits are numbers from 22 to 37, The expiration date code starts from 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) and subsequent dates. And the retained sample related to the complaint forSalmonellaNewport tested negative forSalmonella. Importing formulas is one of the Biden administrations measures to help ease the ongoing shortage in the US. (1), Babies can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal symptoms if they consumed the spoiled products. It was also quickly approved by the Senate and is now up to Biden to sign into law. Importantly, no distributed product has tested positive for the presence ofCronobacter sakazakii. (7). (21), Democrat Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, explained that this will increase the FDAs staff so more of them can do the following: (21), However, this bill has been met with resistance, with other lawmakers such as Rep. Bill Huizenga saying that more formula production is needed, not more FDA staff. But these include Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare during the first recall, then Similac PM 60/40 in the second recall. (59), When we identified this, we did extensive testing of every product on the (factory) line, and more than 99.8 percent of the product was negative for beetle contamination, said Abbott spokeswoman Melissa Brotz. (44). (16), 44,000 pounds (equivalent to approximately 548,000 eight-ounce bottles) of specialty infant formulas Nestl Health Science Alfamino and Alfamino Junior arrived at the Louisville International Airport from Switzerland. Yes. (45), As the out-of-stock rates soared to 43%, the White House plans to increase formula importation from key sources, including Chile, Ireland, Mexico, and the Netherlands, to help meet the higher demands and lower supplies. The shipment was taken to the Nestle distribution center about a mile away for standard quality control checks. (50). Surprisingly, however, the FDA didnt issue a safety notice nor did they stop Abbott from producing formulas until the issues have been resolved. Aside from checking the nutritional values and ingredients, its also a good idea to monitor for infant formula product recalls. Similac issued three recall notices in 2022, involving multiple formula products. (33), Formula makers quickly responded, with Nestle importing Alfamino from Switzerland and also Gerber Good Start Extensive HA from the Netherlands. The Recalls and Safety Alerts Database provides easy access to a comprehensive list of recalls, advisories, and safety alerts. Additionally, retained samples related to the three complaints forCronobacter sakazakiitested negative forCronobacter. because of recent Congressional Reports showing that many popular manufacturers are selling products tainted with high levels of toxic heavy metals. Now you can switch to digital savings by phone on your favorite formulasheres how: Thanks, but I'll stick with paper for now. (40). Then, ready-to-feed liquid products (product names listed below) were recalled in October over a manufacturing that might cause spoilage. Although the formula shortage began in 2021, Abbotts massive recall worsened the problem. (36), Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik accused Bidens failed leadership, saying that its responsible for Americas baby formula crisis. (48), DeLauro expressed alarm that the FDA didnt act quickly enough to check on the whistleblowers report, considering that it involves the possible unsafe production of infant formula. (45), As the formula shortage drove desperate parents to find online options, there were reports of products being offered on eBay for as high as $800, despite normally costing $43 to $47. It was easier to increase the shipments because both were already being imported even before the shortage. Some options for you to try (US brands), with your pediatricians approval: *Check out our interviews with Serenity Kids founders on their toddler formula, and their baby food pouches. This can result in spoilage. However, Califf reportedly sidestepped these questions by saying that he cant share details of the agencys ongoing investigation. For all feeding-related questions or questions about your childs health, contact a healthcare professional. Theyre now investigating the circumstances of the babys death. (37). Click on the "Learn More" button to see lot numbers included in the recall or scroll down to Check Lot Number. Abbott voluntarily recalled one lot of Similac PM 60/40 with lot #27032K80 (can) or lot # 27032K800 (case) also manufactured in the companys facility in Sturgis, Michigan. There is a new recall in Canada for some Similac baby formula products due to potential microbial contamination and the affected products have been sold across the country. Abbott conducts extensive quality checks on each completed batch of infant formula, including microbiological analysis prior to release. (11). Affected lots (same bottle and case numbers): Bottle lot numbers only (no case lot numbers provided): Abbott Nutrition clarifies that the recall only affects these products and specific lot or case/carton numbers. They havent confirmed how many formula units have been recalled. I am deeply concerned about the practices at this Abbott facility and their apparent failure to implement and enforce internal controls at this facility. RECALL NOTICE: OUTSIDE US October 2022 Abbott is initiating a proactive, voluntary recall of certain lots of 2 fl oz/59 ml bottles of Ready-to-Feed liquid products, including the brands Similac Pro-Total Comfort , Similac 360 Total Care , Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive, Similac Special Care 24, Similac Stage 1, Similac Water (Sterilized), Similac Neosure and . The recall was issued following consumer reports of four babies hospitalized, and one possible death due to Cronobacter. At least two kids have been hospitalized in direct connection with the formula shortage. Recalls. This manufacturing defect may cause a decrease in the formulas vitamin C content over time. The FDA said environmental samples from the facility have yielded positive results for the Cronobacter bacteria, but there have been no reports of salmonella so far. Abbott Nutrition is recalling certain lots of ready-to-feed liquid baby products, including several under its Similac brand, for potential spoilage, the company said Friday. Similac powdered baby formula with an expiration date on or after April 1, 2022, and a code with first two digits of 22 through 37 and containing K8, SH or Z2 are part of a voluntary recall by its manufacturer, Abbott Nutrition. To identify if your product is included, please visitsimilacrecall.comto view a list of impacted lot numbers or use the lot number checker on the webpage. Any changes to their formula need to be carefully monitored to make sure they could be well tolerated. Designed to support the immune system, brain development, and digestive health. (1)(2), Abbott added another Similac PM 60/40 to this recall list on February 28 for the same reason. 8 oz (6 p ack) ready to feed . Nine Baby Deaths Reported During FDA Investigation, From December 1, 2021, to March 3, 2022, the FDA reportedly received a total of nine reports of formula-related baby deaths, with two among the four confirmed, infections that led to the February 2022 Similac recall. One grants the secretary of the Department of Agriculture the permanent flexibility to issue waivers in the event of supply disruption. Thats why theres also a shortage in the store brands like Walmarts Parents Choice formulas produced by Perrigo. Abbott is continuing production of Similac 2 fluid ounce/59 milliliter Ready-to-Feed liquid formula products for hospitals and healthcare providers' offices on a different production line. They also need to promptly notify the FDA about the situation. And the retained sample related to the complaint for Salmonella Newport tested negative for Salmonella Newport, Abbott also reminds parents and caregivers that, can be commonly found in the environment and a variety of areas around the home. The US formula shortage rates continue to rise, with the number reaching as high as 70% in the week ending on May 22, according to a report from Datasembly. Theyre doing it to fulfill the FDAs request. Falsified records about several safety and quality concerns, including signing verifications without adequate knowledge, testing of seals, shipping products with fill weights lower than whats on the label, failure to maintain accurate maintenance records, etc. (44), Updating the protocols for cleaning, water, and maintenance procedures, Upgrading the facility with the installation of sanitary floors that are easily cleanable and nonporous, Reviewing and updating their training system, education, and all safety procedures applicable for employees and visitors, White House Announces Measures For Formula Shortage, Cracking Down On Price Gouging & Unfair Market Practices, Abbott Nutrition Announces Release Of Some Products Amid Shortage, include the recently recalled Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powder formulas. With the ongoing infant milk formula shortage in the US, worried parents are having difficulty finding supplies for their babies. (38), To meet the demands, Enfamil production has been increased to 30%, the company added. (29), Wyden has reportedly requested Abbott for more information regarding their stock buyback program. (47), However, the released products dont include the recently recalled Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powder formulas. To identify if your product is included, please visit similacrecall.com to view a list of impacted lot numbers or use the lot number checker on the webpage. The first recall (Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formulas) was issued on February 17 due to possible contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii bacteria, which caused serious infections. (28). 03518QU (manufacturing date March 2019; expiration date March 2022). Abbott Nutrition acknowledges their role in the infant formula shortage. To find out if the product you have is included in this recall, click on the button below to check your lot number. Meanwhile, Abbott said the recall "equates to less than one day's worth of the total number of ounces of infant formula fed in the U.S. and is not expected to impact the overall U.S. infant formula supply.". The products included in the recall were manufactured at our Columbus, Ohio, manufacturing facility. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive . Califf announced, instead, that Abbott could restart production in a week or two, pending safety upgrades and certifications. . Cronobacter infections are rare but can be especially dangerous for newborn babies. hide caption. The FDA had actually conducted plant inspections in September. The shipment included 132 pallets of both the Nestle Health Science Alfamino Infant and the Alfamino Junior formulas. (36). Abbott Nutrition said it is cooperating with the FDA investigation into the three Cronobacter sakazakii infections and one salmonella infection, all of which required hospitalization. Consolidation Makes Formula Market Vulnerable, Reckitt Benckiser (Mead-Johnsons Enfamil), Making Food Safety A Priority To Avoid Repeat Of Formula Crisis, Babies Hospitalized Due To Formula Shortage, Two Children Hospitalized Because Their Specialty Formula Is Out Of Stock, Babies Hospitalized For Intolerance To New Formula & Mineral Imbalances, Undisclosed Number Of Children Hospitalized in Georgia, Undisclosed Number Of Kids Hospitalized in Wisconsin, Abbott Nutrition To Reopen Sturgis Plant Involved In Recall, According to Abbott Nutrition, theyll prioritize producing, and other formulas will be next in line once production starts. Withdrawals, & (12), These flights will arrive starting on June 24. Select Similac baby products are part of a new recall. Findings to date include several positive Cronobacter sakazakii results from environmental samples taken by the FDA and adverse inspectional observations by the FDA investigators. The FDA is advising consumers not to use recalled Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas. powder . The doctor explained that these kids didnt have other illnesses and could have stayed at home. (36), A total of 192 Republican lawmakers voted against the bill, claiming that throwing millions of dollars at the problem wont fix it. (36), The Houses budget measure is expected to meet more resistance in the Senate. According to DeLauro, the whistleblower (name withheld for security reasons) wrote a 34-page report with a long list of allegations about security lapses and unsafe practices at the plant. Still, parents are also having trouble finding these products for their babies. Password reset email has been sent. (28), Then, the company allegedly increased its dividends by over 25% and offered shareholders a stock buyback program worth $5 billion. (56), The recall was based on an internal quality review. (7), It might have played a big role in the shortage and can be held liable, depending on the outcome of the Justice Departments investigation. Rakeen Mabud, the groups chief economist, pointed out that instead of improving its plant and making productive investments, Abbott chose to prioritize its shareholders. The recall does not include any metabolic deficiency nutrition formulas. The recall was issued following consumer reports of four babies hospitalized, and one possible death due to, Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formulas, The code at the bottom of the package or container contains K8, SH, or Z2, The first two digits of the code are numbers from 22 to 37, The expiration date code is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later. (21), Rep. Andy Harris, chair of the Appropriations subcommittee that funds the FDA, claimed that it wasnt a money problem but a leadership issue. It was especially more difficult for children who need specialty formulas that were only manufactured by Abbott. Abbott is initiating a proactive, voluntary recall of certain lots of 2 fluid ounce/59 milliliter bottles of Ready-to-Feed liquid products for infants and children, including the brands. (18), Similac Pro-Total Comfort (Powder) infant formula, Similac Total Comfort Easy-to-Digest Gentle Protein & Prebiotics, Abbott Reopens Formula Plant, Starts EleCare Production, Some Global Companies To Send Formulas As US Shortage Hits 70%, rates continue to rise, with the number reaching as high as 70% in the week ending on May 22, according to a report from Datasembly. (21), According to the FDAs food director, Susan Mayne, they were unable to fully determine if theres a match because they only had sequences from two babies. Why it matters: About 3 in 4 babies are fed formula by six months old as a complete or partial substitute for human milk, Axios' Nathan Bomey reports. (35), Republican House representatives filed a counter bill they call the Babies Need More Formula Now Act which aims to obtain formulas from overseas sources. Tests of retained product samples from the recalled Similac PM 60/40 lot were negative for Cronobacter. (3), Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis can include: (2). (19). Several groups are also calling on the FDA to restore the deputy food commissioner position removed during the Trump administration. Many parents are closely monitoring infant formula and baby food recalls because of recent Congressional Reports showing that many popular manufacturers are selling products tainted with high levels of toxic heavy metals. Our formula also has nutrition designed for immune support, brain development, and digestive health. The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) is also coordinating with various states to let WIC recipients purchase whatever products are in stock instead of being limited to WIC-approved options. 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