Problems with Baby Formula Linked with Infant Deaths Could Have Been Uncovered Sooner

Baby formula made by Abbott Nutrition that has been linked to infant deaths tested positive for lethal bacteria at least twice, dating back to 2019. According to Consumer Reports, Abbott Nutrition’s manufacturing plant inspection records suggest that problems with the company’s now-recalled infant formula products, linked to the deaths of at least two children, could have been uncovered sooner. The baby formula made by Abbott tested positive for a deadly bacteria at least twice dating back to 2019, according to newly released records, an issue the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cited last month when announcing the recall.

Baby Formula Tainted with Deadly Bacteria

Abbott issued the sweeping recall over bacterial contamination concerns in multiple products, including certain Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare brands, which are now linked to two infant deaths and multiple illnesses. The risk stems from a particularly rare and deadly bacterium, Cronobacter sakazakii. Abbott told Consumer Reports that it shared those test results with the FDA during prior inspections. These revelations might bring back concerns among lawmakers and consumer advocates that the FDA could’ve acted sooner to remove the tainted baby formula from the market. For weeks, lawmakers and safety advocates have questioned whether the FDA had a chance to catch the problem earlier. The agency initially learned in September 2021 about a potential link between the baby formula and cronobacter. Yet, the recall wasn’t issued until four months later, after reports surfaced that two infants died and others were hospitalized after consuming the products. The new records obtained by Consumer Reports include agency inspection reports in 2019, 2021, and 2022, which show that the FDA had documented serious and ongoing safety concerns at Abbott’s plant just as the outbreak emerged this month. But the FDA seemingly failed to make the company’s testing records a concern until more reports of deaths and illnesses emerged.

Increasing Concerns

This is certainly a cause for concern. The FDA was familiar with serious sanitation concerns at Abbott’s plant and yet, did nothing to share that information with consumers. This is especially distressing because deaths and illnesses could have been prevented had the FDA uncovered the problems at the plant and pushed for a recall earlier. If your child is experiencing the symptoms of cronobacter, notify your child’s doctor and seek medical care right away. It is also important to report confirmed cases to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Contact an experienced product defect lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.   Source: https://www.nbcchicago.com/consumer/report-finds-increase-in-child-deaths-injuries-tied-to-recalled-products/2785932/