Recall Issued For Infant Formula Over Contamination Concerns

PROVIDENCE, RI — Certain containers of Similac and Elecare infant formula are being recalled after four babies were hospitalized, the Rhode Island Department of Health warned parents. The products come from an Abbot Nutrition facility in Sturgis, Michigan.

The formula may be contaminated with Cronobacter, which can cause serious foodborne illness in infants. While these infections are rare, they are particularly dangerous for newborns.

To date, there have been at least four illnesses, all of which required hospitalization. Three were Cronobacter sakazakii infections and one Salmonella Newport infection. Cronobacter may have contributed to one death, the Food and Drug Adminstration said. No illnesses have been reported in Rhode Island, the Department of Health said.

The recalled products include Similac Alimentum and EleCare powdered formula that meet the following criteria:

• 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

The code is printed on the packaging near the expiration date, as shown in the photo below.

Products that don't meet all the requirements above are not included in the recall. Liquid formula products and metabolic deficiency nutrition formulas are not affected.

Cronobacter bacteria infections can lead to sepsis or meningitis, symptoms of which can include poor feeding, irritability, changes in temperature, yellowing of the skin and eyes, grunting breaths or abnormal movements. Reach out to your child's health care provider if he or she develops any of these symptoms.