Reckitt Recalls Plant-Based Infant Formula Due to Health Risk
On February 20, 2023, Reckitt recalled two select batches of Enfamil 12.9 oz ProSobee Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula due to potential health risks caused by bacterial contamination.
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- Reckitt, a consumer goods company, recently issued a recall on two batches of its Enfamil 12.9 oz ProSobee Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula, amounting to more than 140,000 cans, due to potential health hazards. According to the company’s recall notice, the infant formula has yet to cause any adverse reactions; however, out of caution, the company is voluntarily recalling two batches of its plant-based formula.
In the recall notice, Reckitt revealed that batches ZL2HZF and ZL2HZZ of the infant formula might have been cross-contaminated with Cronobacter sakazakii, an opportunistic pathogen that can survive in arid environments.
According to the CDC, this species of bacteria can be deadly in infants. Often found in dry foods such as infant formula, powdered milk, herbal teas, and more, these Gram-negative bacteria are most likely to impact infants within the first few weeks of life.
Annually, the CDC typically sees 2–4 reported cases in the United States. In 2022, two infant deaths were attributed to infection by this bacterium, likely contracted through infant formula. These cases were connected to recalls by Abbott Laboratories on its Similac formula. At the time, recalls triggered national infant formula shortages, leaving many families struggling.
Cronobacter infection can lead to a dangerous blood infection (sepsis) and cause the lining surrounding the brain and spinal cord to swell (meningitis). Meningitis is most likely to develop in infants under two months. Beyond age, premature birth and weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatment may put infants at a higher risk for infection.
The most common symptoms of infection in infants are fever, poor feeding, excessive crying, and seizures. While no one has reported adverse reactions due to the recalled formula, the recall notice advises parents to monitor their infants and contact their child’s pediatrician or the company if they have additional concerns. Anyone using Enfamil 12.9 oz ProSobee Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula is advised to check the batch number and return or dispose of it.
In the recall notice, the company states, “We are committed to the highest level of quality and safety, and it is for this reason that we have taken this extraordinary measure. The batches in question tested negative for Cronobacter and other bacteria, and this is an isolated situation. After a thorough investigation, we have identified the root cause, which was linked to a material from a third party. We have taken all appropriate corrective actions, including no longer sourcing this material from the supplier.”
