Recall Alert: Three Major Baby Formula Brands Are Contaminated With Salmonella

When we’ve chatted about recalls in the past, it’s usually because E. Coli was discovered in ground beef or listeria was found in spinach. But today’s recall is both more concerning and much more urgent because it affects our littlest loved ones. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has just announced that Abbott Nutrition has issued a voluntary recall of Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formulas due to complaints of Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella, which are two types of bacteria that tend to grow and thrive in dry food. So far, at least four infants in three different states including Minnesota, Oregon, and Texas have been sickened after consuming one of the three powdered formulas. The FDA believes that one of the infants may have died due to cronobacter contamination.

“As this is a product used as the sole source of nutrition for many of our nation’s newborns and infants, the FDA is deeply concerned about these reports of bacterial infections,” said Frank Yiannas, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Food Policy and Response, in a statement. “We want to reassure the public that we’re working diligently with our partners to investigate complaints related to these products, which we recognize include infant formula produced at this facility, while we work to resolve this safety concern as quickly as possible.”

So how do you know if you have the affected product? The FDA has recommended that consumers don’t use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare if 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 formula has been distributed nationwide, as well as globally to more than 30 countries.

At this time, the recall only includes powdered infant formula, not liquid products. If you are concerned about your child’s health and formula usage, contact their health care provider for more information about alternative formula recommendations or treatment.

What are your favorite foods to introduce to babies? Share your stories in the comments below!