Nutrition product manufacturer Reckitt on Sunday announced an infant formula recall due to possible cross-contamination with Cronobacter, the bacteria that sparked last year’s formula shortage and may have been linked to two infants’ deaths.
The company is voluntarily recalling two batches of Enfamil ProSobee Simply Plant-based formula. All of the distributed products went through “extensive testing” and tested negative for the bacteria, according to a news release.
The company said the recall is an isolated incident that is taking place “out of an abundance of caution.” Spokespeople for the company did not immediately return a request for comment from USA TODAY.
The recall affects about 145,000 12.9-ounce containers manufactured between August and September 2022 and distributed through retail stores in the U.S., Guam and Puerto Rico. No other products are impacted by the recall and no illnesses or adverse events have been reported, according to Reckitt.
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What caused the baby formula recall?
Reckitt said the root cause of the contamination risk is tied to “a material from a third party,” and the company will no longer source this material from the supplier.
What is Cronobacter?
Cronobacter is found in a variety of dry foods, including powdered infant formula, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While illnesses associated with the bacteria are rare, they can be deadly for infants.
In late 2021 and early 2022, the Food and Drug Administration received reports of illnesses among infants who were reported to have consumed powdered infant formula products from an Abbott Nutrition plan in Michigan. Two babies died, and the FDA said Cronobacter infection may have contributed to their deaths.
FDA inspectors found signs of contamination at the Abbott plant, which prompted the company to recall formula and shut down production. Because Abbott provides more than 40% of the nation’s supply of baby formula, supply became limited and stores began rationing sales.
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What baby formula was recalled?
Customers who have purchased ProSobee formula from Reckitt should check the bottom of the can to see if their purchase is included in the recall. Recalled batches have the code ZL2HZF or ZL2HZZ at the bottom of the can, along with the UPC code 300871214415 and a “Use By Date” of March 1, 2024.
Buyers should dispose of the formula or return it for a refund.
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