Certain Similac-brand powder infant formulas in Guam, Puerto Rico, the USA and some parts of the Caribbean are being recalled by Abbot Labs because there is a “remote” possibility of contamination with a small common beetle. Abbott explained that following an internal quality review, they discovered there is a risk of the presence of beetles in the formula from one production area in a single manufacturing facility.

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) believes the formula containing these beetles or their larvae pose no immediate health risk. However, there is a risk of gastrointestinal discomfort if babies consume the tainted formula; the irritation in the GI tract could discourage them from eating.

Parents of babies who consumed the formula and have gastrointestinal discomfort that lasts for more than a few days should see their doctor, Abbott and the FDA advise.

The following infant formulas are included in this recall:

  • Certain Similac powder product lines offered in plastic containers.
  • Certain Similac powder product lines offered in sizes such as 8-ounce, 12.4-ounce and 12.9-ounce cans.

If you want to find out whether the infant formula you bought is included in this recall, visit www.similac.com/recall and fill in the Lot Number on the form. Alternatively, you may telephone (800) 986-8850.

Abbot liquid infant formulas are not affected. None of the Abbot Nutrition liquid ready-to-feed and concentrated infant formulas and none of the powder and liquid formulas, such as Similac Expert Care™ Alimentum®, Elecare®, Similac Expert Care™ Neosure®, Similac® Human Milk Fortifier, and metabolic formulas for inherited disorders are affected by this recall.

Purchasers who have bought the recalled formulas should return them to Abbot at no cost.

Holger Liepmann, executive vice president of Abbott Nutrition said:

Abbott understands that parents expect to feed their children only the highest quality product. We are taking this action so that parents know that the infant formula products they provide unquestionably meet the highest quality standards for which they are known. We regret any inconvenience this situation poses to parents and consumers.

Source: Abbot Laboratories, FDA.

Written by Christian Nordqvist