ECRI Blog

Abbott Infant Formula Shortage: 3 ECRI Recommendations

Written by Edward Nuber, Director of Marketing, ECRI | May 18, 2022

Infant formula shortage is all over the news. The White House is taking emergency actions, while mothers, fathers and families are feeling the brunt of the shortage.  

On February 17, 2022, Abbott initiated a proactive, voluntary recall of powder formulas, including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan, because of possible Cronobacter sakazakii or Salmonella Newport contamination.The recall does not include any metabolic deficiency nutrition formulas. The products under recall have a multidigit number on the bottom of the container starting with the first two digits 22 through 37, contains K8, SH, or Z2 and with an expiration date of April 1, 2022, or after. 

ECRI is focusing its resources on this critical issue to help the public and the healthcare community be more informed. ECRI recommends taking the following steps: 

  1. Review the extensive list ECRI compiled of infant formula manufacturers, model numbers, and status of availability to understand the current situation.
  2. Refer to the ECRI Safety Alerts regarding recent recalls for more information.
  3. Refer to leading associations on nutrition, such as the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) nutritioncare.org.