Specialist powdered infant formula recall
A precautionary national recall of some specialist powdered infant formula products is being conducted by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
NSW Health can confirm there have been no infections linked to these products in NSW to date.
Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd and Abbott US are recalling some EleCare, Similac and Alimentum formula products, which were manufactured in the United States.
The recall is due to potential microbial contamination (Cronobacter and Salmonella) which may cause illness if consumed.
These specialist formula products have been available nationally through pharmacies and via direct mail order. Parents and caregivers can obtain advice on alternative products from their child’s specialist, their GP or pharmacist.
Parents and caregivers should change to a suitable alternative product as soon as possible but should only stop feeding their child the affected product once an alternative product has been obtained.
These specialist formula products are mainly used for children aged 0 to 12 months with Cows Milk Protein Allergy (CMPI), suspected CMPI, short gut syndrome, eosinophilic oesophagitis, and intestinal issues.
People infected with Salmonella commonly develop symptoms of gastroenteritis, including fever, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and headache.
People infected with Cronobacter commonly develop a more systemic illness. Infants under 12 months may exhibit:
• Fever, crying, and irritability or very low energy
• Poor feeding, stomach pain, or vomiting
• Blood in the bowel movements, or a swollen abdomen.
If a child who has consumed one of the affected products develops any of the above symptoms, seek urgent medical attention. Both Salmonella and Cronobacter infections can be treated with antibiotics.
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