In February 2022 the FDA, along with CDC and state and local partners announced an investigation of illnesses in 4 infants. There were three reports of Cronobacter sakazakii infections and one report of Salmonella Newport infection. All four cases were hospitalized and Cronobacter may have contributed to a death in one case. Adverse event dates ranged from September 6, 2021 to December 18, 2021. Cases occurred in Minnesota (1), Ohio (1) and Texas (2).

All of the cases were reported to have consumed powdered infant formula (IF) produced from Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis, MI facility. FDA initiated an onsite inspection at the facility. Findings as of February 20, 2022 included several positive Cronobacter results from environmental samples taken by FDA, and adverse inspectional observations by FDA investigators. A review of the firm’s internal records also indicated environmental contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii and the firm’s destruction of product due to the presence of Cronobacter.

FDA issued an advisory to alert consumers to avoid purchasing or using recalled powdered infant formula produced in the Sturgis, MI facility.

On 2/17/2022, Abbott Nutrition initiated a voluntary recall of certain powdered infant formulas. Products made at the Sturgis facility can be found across the United States and were likely exported to other countries as well. Canadian health officials have also issued a recall.