Similac, EleCare + Alimentum Baby Formula Recall Details

A proactive, voluntary recall of powdered baby formula processed in Sturgis, Michigan has been issued by the manufacturer.  Abbott issued the recall of their Similac, EleCare, and Alimentum powdered baby formulas over Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport concerns.

The recall was initiated by consumer complaints to the company.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, four consumers reported Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport in infants who had consumed the powdered baby formula that was manufactured at the Sturgis, Michigan facility.  That instigated the Abbott company to do an internal investigation.

That internal investigation did find evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii in the plant; that evidence was discovered, though in "non-product contact areas".  That same internal investigation did not, however, find evidence of Salmonella Newport.  The company issued the recall to be proactive and is continuing their investigation.

It's worth noting that "no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of either of these bacteria".

As part of their proactive, voluntary recall, Abbott is recalling the power formula manufactured at the Michigan facility that has an expiration date of April 1, 2002 or later.  No Abbott liquid formulas, powdered formulas, or nutrition products from other facilities are impacted by this recall.

Additional identifying characteristics of the recalled Similac, EleCare, and Alimentum baby formulas include a multi-digit number that's located on the bottom of the containers.  The first two digits of that number are 22 through 37, and contains K8, SH, or Ze.

Consumers who buy Similac, EleCare, and Alimentum powdered baby formulas are urged to visit the recall website that Abbott has established.  Additionally, you can call the company hotline:  1-800-986-8540.