Abbott Laboratories said late Thursday it is voluntarily recalling powder baby formulas, including its best-selling Similac, made in one plant in Michigan after it received four consumer complaints related to the bacteria Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport in infants who had consumed powder infant formula made in the factory. “During testing in our Sturgis, Mich., facility, we found evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii in the plant in non-product contact areas. We found no evidence of Salmonella Newport. This investigation is ongoing,” Abbott said. “Importantly, no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of either of these bacteria, and we continue to test.” Despite detecting no pathogens, the company is recalling powder formulas manufactured in the plant with an expiration of April 1, 2022 or after, it said. The recall does not affect Abbott liquid formulas, powder formulas, or nutrition products from other facilities, Abbott said. “We’re taking this action so parents know they can trust us to meet our high standards, as well as theirs. We deeply regret the concern and inconvenience this situation will cause parents, caregivers and health care professionals,” said Joe Manning, executive VP of nutritional products. Shares of Abbott edged higher in the extended session Thursday after ending the regular trading day down 2.5%.
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