The recent expansion of the infant formula recall by Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition, including the United Kingdom and Ireland, is due to the potential presence of Cronobacter sakazakii in some batches of Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 and 2 Hypoallergenic formula powders.
The affected products are the stage 1 formula 400-gram with batch code ZL3F7D and best before July 1, 2025. The stage 2 formula 400-gram with the same date but batch codes ZL3FAA and ZL3FDM are also included in the recall. These formulas are designed for special medical purposes for infants and are typically prescribed, but they are also available without a prescription.
The recall was initiated as a precaution after an isolated overseas sample of the product tested positive for Cronobacter sakazakii. Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition is conducting an investigation, and the recall is based on the possibility of cross-contamination with Cronobacter. However, all distributed products underwent testing and were negative for the bacteria.
It’s important to note that there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these formulas at this time.
Health effects of Coronobactor sakazakii
Cronobacter sakazakii is a bacterium that can cause serious illnesses, including rare bloodstream and central nervous system infections. It has been linked to severe intestinal infections (necrotizing enterocolitis) and blood poisoning (sepsis), especially in newborns, and can, in some cases, lead to fatal infections.
Recall in US and Canada
In addition to the recall in the UK and Ireland, there have been recalls of related products in Canada and the United States. Spain has also reported suspected Cronobacter sakazakii contamination in a special medical purpose food manufactured in the U.S., as posted on the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF).
Link for Recall: https://www.globalfoodconsumers.org/food_recall/infant-formula-due-to-cronobacter-sakazakii-contamination/
Consumers are advised to check their infant formula products for the specified batch codes and best-before dates and follow the guidance provided by the relevant food safety authorities.