Abbott Baby Formula Recall: What You Need to Know

​Baby formula is a staple for so many new parents. But what if the formula you are feeding your baby is not safe? That is exactly what has been happening with some brands of Abbott Laboratories, Inc.’s (“Abbott”) powdered baby formula in recent months. There have been several brands of Abbott baby formula recalled due to concerns that they may contain harmful bacteria. Specifically, powder formulas including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan, one of the company’s manufacturing facilities, have been recalled. In this article, we cover what you need to know about the recall. 

The Abbott Recalled Baby Formula

​On February 27, 2012, Abbott announced it was recalling powder formulas, including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan, one of the company’s manufacturing facilities. The recall does not include any metabolic deficiency nutrition formulas. Products made at this facility can be found across the U.S. and were likely exported to other countries as well. Canadian health officials have also issued a recall warning.  Additionally, on February 28, 2012, Abbott stated it was recalling one lot of Similac PM 60/40 (Lot # 27032K80 (can) / Lot # 27032K800 (case)) manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan.

Why Has Abbott Baby Formula Been Recalled?

​Abbott is 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. Cronobacter sakazakii is a bacteria commonly found in dry environments, like baby formula, and can cause stomach issues as well as urinary tract infections in people of all ages. However, when ingested by a child two months or younger, it can result in more serious infections, for example, sepsis and meningitis. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms after consuming a dry food product, you should seek medical treatment to ensure their safety immediately: fever; unusual patterns of crying; abnormally low energy; and difficulty or refusal to eat.
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On the other hand, Salmonella Newport causes symptoms of foodborne illness, such as diarrhea, intestinal pressure, and vomiting. This type of bacteria is significantly more dangerous to children under three months of age, and an infant who is infected with Salmonella Newport will exhibit the same symptoms as Cronobacter sakazakii. 

What to Do if You Find Abbott Recalled Baby Formula in Your Home

​The defective baby formula products contain bacteria that, if ingested, can cause a serious, life-threatening infection in young children. Any family that has Abbott products in their home should dispose of them and find a safer alternative for their children, one that does not jeopardize their health and well-being. Although there has not been a large number of reported cases of infections, it is still best to avoid the products entirely to ensure your child's safety.

What Should I Do if My Child Is Showing Symptoms?

​If you notice that your child is exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned above after consuming a powdered baby formula product, it’s best to bring them to a trusted medical professional for a second opinion. The signs of a Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport infection are very vague, and the behavior your child is showing could just be a coincidence rather than a severe diagnosis. However, you do not want to leave that up to chance, and by seeking medical attention sooner rather than later, you can protect your child from the consequences of an infection that has gone too far.

Final Thoughts: Should You Throw Out Your Recalled Bottle of Formula?

​Yes, you should dispose of any recalled Abbott baby formula you may have in your home and not jeopardize the health of your child. Be mindful that the formula that was part of the original recall may still be on store shelves. If your baby was hospitalized after using Abbott Recalled Baby Formula purchased after August 2021, call Abbott Baby Formula Recall Lawyer Timothy L. Miles for a free case evaluation and see if you are eligible for a Baby Formula Recall Lawsuit today. For more information on the Abbott Baby formula recall click here and for a wealth of information on defective products and the legal system please visit our Resources Center. 

Timothy L Miles

Timothy L. Miles is a nationally recognized shareholder rights attorney raised in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Miles was recentely selected by Martindale-Hubbell® and ALM as a 2022 Top Ranked Lawyer, 2022 Top Rated Litigator. and a 2022 Elite Lawyer of the South. Mr. Miles also maintains the AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell®, their highest rating for both legal ability and ethics. Mr. Miles is a member of the prestigious Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Trial Lawyers: The National Trial Lawyers Association, a superb rated attorney by Avvo, a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award by Premier Lawyers of America (2019) and recognized as a Distinguished Lawyer, Recognizing Excellence in Securities Law, by Lawyers of Distinction (2019).