Similac Formula Recall
Class-Action Lawsuit for Children Harmed by Recalled Baby Formula
Five babies were hospitalized, two of whom died, from a rare bacterial infection after consuming powdered baby formula manufactured by Abbot.
The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Feb. 17, 2022, that the maker of Similac had issued a voluntary recall of powder formulas including Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare. Less than two weeks later, the company expanded the recall to include additional lots.
If your child became ill after consuming a contaminated Similac product,
you may be entitled to participate in a class-action lawsuit.
Contact Bradley/Grombacher LLP to learn more.
Lots in Similac Recall
The products under recall have a multidigit number on the bottom of the container starting with the first two digits 22 through 37, containing K8, SH, or Z2, and with an expiration date of April 1, 2022, or after.
The lot number can be found on the bottom of the container. Parents can check whether their formula is part of the recall by clicking here or by calling 800-986-8540.
All the recalled formulas were manufactured in its Sturgis, Mich., facility. The company continues to produce baby formula at its other plants.
Harmful Bacteria Can Be Fatal
The bacteria at the heart of the investigation are Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella Newport. Four infants have reported Cronobacter infections, and one has reported a Salmonella Newport infection, according to the FDA. All five infants were hospitalized and two died.
Symptoms of Cronobacter or Salmonella infection include the following:
- Poor feeding
- Grunting breaths
- Abnormal movements
- Lethargy
- Rash
- Blood in urine or stools
Exposure to Cronobacter can cause sepsis and meningitis. Infants 2 months of age and younger are most likely to develop meningitis if they get sick from Cronobacter. Infants born prematurely and those less able to fight germs and sickness because of illness or medical treatment are also at greater risk.
If you have questions about feeding your child, contact your healthcare professional.
Unsanitary Conditions at Similac Plant
On March 22, 2022, the FDA released that federal investigators had found unsanitary conditions during its review of the Sturgis plant. The preliminary report stated that Abbott failed to maintain sanitary conditions and procedures. The baby formula maker didn't maintain clean surfaces used in producing and handling the powdered formula, according to the FDA inspection.
The inspectors also found a history of contamination with the Cronobacter bacteria, including eight instances between fall 2019 and February 2022.
This is not the first time FDA inspectors have evaluated the Michigan plan. They cited sanitary problems during a visit in September 2021. The inspectors found a lack of temperature controls and employees who failed to sanitize their hands. Despite these concerns, the FDA did not issue a formal warning or require production to stop.
More detailed findings should be released later this year.
Nationwide Attorney for Similac Recall Cases
Bradley/Grombacher LLP is accepting cases from parents whose infants developed a bacterial infection from consuming contaminated Similac formula and other brands associated with the Abbott recall.
We understand how devastating a child’s illness can be to a parent. The pain is often intensified when the cause is a product they trusted. We aggressively fight for our client’s rights in settlement negotiations and inside the courtroom.
Our law firm is unafraid to hold large corporations accountable for releasing products that violate laws and harm Americans. We have more than 50 years of combined experience in helping our clients who have been victimized by contaminated products.
We offer no-cost or obligation case evaluations. Submit your information online or call (888) 418-7094 to schedule an appointment.
