If you’re someone who keeps up to date on FDA related matters, you’ve probably heard that the FDA has ordered a massive recall of many popular baby formula products due to contamination with the dangerous bacterium, Cronobacter sakazakii. This recall has affected many of the preferred brands of formula on the market, namely Similac, Alimentum and EleCare.

What is Cronobacter sakazakii?

Cronobacter is a pathogen that has been linked to severe illnesses in children, including meningitis and necrotic enterocolitis. These are serious health conditions which might be fatal in children, so it is important to recognize the products that are potentially affected. The FDA recommends that consumers check the lot code, this is a multidigit number on the bottom of containers of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formula.

Affected products contain the following:

• • 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.

In addition to products described above, Abbott Nutrition has recalled Similac PM 60/40 with a lot code of 27032K80 (can) / 27032K800 (case).

Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor or are someone who holds an active role within the supply chain for these products, a recall of this scope can be very costly for your operation, so it’s good to take precautions and make sure that your product is in compliance.

For more information on this ongoing recall, you can read more at the FDA’s website: FDA Investigation of Cronobacter Infections: Powdered Infant Formula (February 2022) | FDA