RECALL: Abbott baby formula recall expanded to Similac PM

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has expanded its recall on certain infant formulas to include Similac PM after it confirmed an additional illness caused by contamination link to the Abbott plant in Michigan. 

In a press release, the FDA said the most recent patient was reported to have consumed Abbott Nutrition’s Similac PM 60/40 with the lot code 27032K800 prior to Cronobacter sakazakii infection. 

FDA and CDC informed the firm of these findings and on February 28, 2022, Abbott Nutrition voluntarily recalled Similac PM 60/40 powdered infant formula with the lot code 27032K800. 

This is a specialty formula for certain infants who would benefit from lowered mineral intake and was not included in the previous recall. 

At this time, Similac PM 60/40 with lot code 27032K80 (can) / 27032K800 (case) are the only type and lots of this specialty formula being recalled.

“We understand that infant formula is the sole source of nutrition for many infants and is an essential product. FDA is working with Abbott Nutrition to better assess the impacts of the recall and understand production capacity at other Abbott facilities that produce some of the impacted brands. We are also working with Abbott Nutrition on safe resumption of production at the Sturgis, MI facility. FDA is continuing to investigate and will update this advisory should additional consumer safety information become available,” said the FDA.

Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis initiated a voluntary recall on Feb. 17 of certain powder formulas Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Mich., 

The FDA is advising consumers not to use recalled Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas. Recalled products can be identified by the 7 to 9 digit code and expiration date on the bottom of the package (see image below). Products are included in the recall if they have all three items below:

• 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 27032K80 (can) / 27032K800 (case). At this time, Similac PM 60/40 with lot code 27032K80 (can) / 27032K800 (case) are the only type and lots of this specialty formula being recalled.

For more information on the recall, click here