Abbott Voluntarily Recalls Powder Formulas Manufactured at One Plant

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. — Abbott is initiating a proactive, voluntary recall of powder formulas, including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Mich., one of the company's manufacturing facilities. The recall does not include any metabolic deficiency nutrition formulas.

Abbott is voluntarily recalling these products after four consumer complaints related to Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport in infants who had consumed powder infant formula manufactured in this facility.

Additionally, as part of Abbott's quality processes, it said it conducts routine testing for Cronobacter sakazakii and other pathogens in its manufacturing facilities. During testing in the Sturgis, Mich., facility, Abbott said it found evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii in the plant in non-product contact areas. It said it found no evidence of Salmonella Newport. This investigation is ongoing.

According to Abbott, no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of either of these bacteria, and the company said it is continuing to test. Abbott said it conducts extensive quality checks on each completed batch of infant formula, including microbiological analysis prior to release. All finished products are tested for Cronobacter sakazakii, Salmonella Newport and other pathogens and they must test negative before any product is released. the company said. Additionally, retained samples related to the three complaints for Cronobacter sakazakii tested negative for Cronobacter sakazakii. And the retained sample related to the complaint for Salmonella Newport tested negative for Salmonella Newport, according to the company.

While Abbott's testing of finished product detected no pathogens, it is taking action by recalling the powder formula manufactured in this facility with an expiration of April 1, 2022, or later. No Abbott liquid formulas, powder formulas or nutrition products from other facilities are impacted by the recall.

Cronobacter sakazakii is commonly found in the environment and a variety of areas in the home. It can cause fever, poor feeding, excessive crying or low energy as well as other serious symptoms. It's important to follow the instructions for proper preparation, handling and storage of powder formulas.