Similac, the artificial baby formula maker, has issued a recall for several lots of its products after they were found to sicken prematurely born infants. The formula is blamed for a number of instances where prematurely born infants were fed Similac, or other cow milk-based formulas such as Enfamil, and subsequently developed severe gastrointestinal problems. Anyone who has given their prematurely born infant this formula and seen them become ill as a result should contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

What is Similac?

Similac is a cow milk-based baby formula that is commonly given to newborn infants when their mother is unable or unwilling to breastfeed them. In particular, the formula is used to help feed prematurely born infants (also known as “preemies”) who have special nutritional requirements in the earliest weeks after their birth. It is estimated that around 3.18 million Americans use Similac to feed their children every single year, with around 3.22 million using Enfamil, another cow milk-based baby formula facing legal scrutiny.

Why is the Recall Being Issued?

Similac is being recalled after it was discovered that preemies who consumed the formula were at a heightened risk for certain severe gastrointestinal issues. In particular, there was found to be a link between consuming Similac and other cow milk-based formulas and developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a condition usually found in prematurely born children. This condition causes inflammation of the intestinal tract, which can lead to infection and even death.

In addition, after testing, the manufacturer of Similac, Abbott Nutrition, discovered evidence of the bacteria Cronobacter sakazakii in their Sturgis, Michigan facility. The bacterium in question is responsible for a potentially severe illness that is rarely found in infants. While no illnesses have been tied to this particular bacterium, people are still advised not to use formula from the affected plants.

What Does This Recall Affect?

The recall affects all Similac, Alimentum, and EliCare products that fit into the following criteria:

  • The first two digits of the code on the container are between 22 and 37.
  • The code contains K8, SH or Z2.
  • The expiration date is April 1, 2022, or later.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised people not to use these products, and to contact a doctor immediately if they begin to present symptoms of illness. If you have used these products to feed your child and they have become ill, you should also speak to a lawyer with experience handling personal injury claims, who can help you to get compensation for the harm your child has suffered.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.