Following numerous complaints of fatal infections in infants, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) recently launched an inquiry into probable bacterial contamination in specific types of powdered baby formula. The infections have so far been linked to Alimentum, EleCare, and Similac infant formula. These formulas were made at Abbott Nutrition's Facility in Sturgis, Michigan. Abbott issued a recall notice for the infant formula as well as other potentially implicated products. This blog discusses the FDA's investigations into potential bacterial contamination in baby formula.
Concerns About Infant Formula Bacterial Contamination
The FDA probe is predicated on four cases of Cronobacter sakazakii infections in newborns. Furthermore, the inquiry is also grounded on a single instance of the Salmonella Newport infection. All five of the affected newborns required hospitalization. Cronobacter may also have contributed to the deaths of 2 of these children. Cronobacter sakazakii and other Cronobacter strains could cause potentially fatal infections, such as infections of the spine and brain. Cronobacter sakazakii is a naturally occurring bacteria that can survive in extremely dry environments. Dry foods, like powdered baby formula, herbal teas, powdered milk, and starches, can support the bacteria's growth.
In most jurisdictions, a Cronobacter infection is rarely reported, which means doctors aren't obligated to report instances to their local health authority. Cronobacter infections are uncommon, but when they do occur, they could be fatal to newborns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention receives reports of two to four infections in babies each year, but the exact number of infections in the US each year is unknown.
Salmonella Newport, like many other related species, could lead to foodborne disease outbreaks. Salmonella species cause diarrhea in individuals of all ages. Newborns under the age of three months are at a higher risk of acquiring more serious illnesses such as blood and bone infections and meningitis.
Just like with Cronobacter, newborns should be evaluated as soon as they get a fever, especially if it's accompanied by increased lethargy or low energy. While Cronobacter illnesses are uncommon, they could be lethal to newborns. The illnesses could also be lethal for the aged and individuals with low immune systems. Initial symptoms include poor feeding, fever, extreme fatigue, and crying. Salmonella infection symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, rashes, and headaches.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends parents stay cautious and take the necessary steps to limit the chances of Cronobacter infections in their babies. Proper storage and cleaning of feeding items, breastfeeding, as well as using liquid baby formula are all methods that can help lessen the risk. Unlike powdered baby formula, liquid baby formula is usually sterilized, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The FDA's Response to Abbott's Infant Formula Recall
Abbott initially issued a recall for numerous brands of baby formula. Following the discovery of a fourth Cronobacter case, Abbott issued a call back for their Similac PM 60/40 formula with batch code 27032K800. This particular product, which was not covered in the first recall, is a specialty formula for newborns with minimal mineral intake.
Parents could check the lot numbers on Abbott's website. This enables parents to determine whether any products in their home are affected by the recall. So far, only powdered baby formulas have been recalled, not liquid infant formulas. Abbott stated in their recall statement that they identified traces of Cronobacter sakazakii in their facility at non-product contact points. However, no trace of Salmonella Newport was discovered by the company.
According to their recall announcement, Abbott analyzed samples and found no trace of either strain of bacteria. The FDA investigation also discovered traces of Cronobacter in the Sturgis facility's surroundings. The examination also found proof that Abbott Industries had discarded batches of goods upon discovering traces of Cronobacter.
Rosa DeLauro, the chair of the US House Appropriations Committee, recently requested that the FDA's acts leading to the baby formula recall be reviewed by the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. The appeal comes after the FDA received its first report of a Cronobacter illness in a newborn. However, the FDA did not order the recall till February 2022.
Expectations in the Event of a Baby Formula Lawsuit
Families of babies infected with Salmonella or Cronobacter after consuming any of the contaminated powdered formulae are likely to demand explanations and responsibility. A lawsuit involving Abbott's nutrition formula recall would require answers to a series of questions. For instance, lawyers would need to show a strong causal connection between the newborns' infections and the contaminated formula. Questions will be raised about the health and safety protocols at the Sturgis plant. In addition, issues about the firm's testing methodology, as well as the individuals who could have known about possible Cronobacter illnesses and when would be raised. As the lawsuit progresses, they will almost certainly rely on the testimony of experts and professional witnesses. The litigation is expected to include experts in Salmonella and Cronobacter transmission, supervisors in the manufacture of powdered baby formula, and the implications for the child's health.
Find a Product Liability Expert Near Me
If your newborn develops severe health complications as a result of consuming contaminated infant formula, you will want to take legal action against the manufacturing firm as soon as possible. This allows you to seek appropriate recompense for the damage and harm you have suffered. Once the initial concerns have passed, you can assist your baby in fully recovering and leading a healthy and normal life.
It's critical to work with a product liability attorney who has a lot of expertise. Their opinions can make a big difference in the fate of your case, especially if you're part of mass tort litigation. You'll have an easier time getting through the legal proceedings with the help of your lawyer until the lawsuit is completed. We at the Consumer Alert Now have worked with people who have been affected by contaminated infant formula. We are committed to providing customers around the country with a positive experience while seeking justice for the injustice done to their babies. If your child has been injured by powdered baby formula, contact us today at 800-511-0747.
