Formula recall: What to do if Similac is on your shelf
[Editor's note: This story was edited slightly with updated information. For a new update, click on Simulac recall: Can't reach the firm? Help on the way.]
Abbott Laboratories is voluntarily recalling 5 million cans and plastic containers of Similac powdered infant formula because there's a possibility of contamination by beetles or their larvae.
That possibility is remote, the company said in a statement, and there is no immediate health threat, according to the Food & Drug Administration.
Still, the company initiated the Similac formula recall Wednesday after FDA said ingesting the contaminated formula could cause internal discomfort and could lead infants to refuse to eat.
The company is asking consumers to return all suspect product to Abbott or to the stores where they bought it. The only products affected are powdered formula (not liquid Similac) and come either in plastic containers or in specific size cans, including 8-ounce, 12.4-ounce, and 12.9-ounce cans.
To find out if your Similac powder formula is subject to the recall, look on the bottom of the container for a product code that includes eight numbers or letters.
Then go to this website – www.similac.com/recall – where you can type in the code to see if your Similac is on the list.
Consumers can also call Abbott's 24-hour hotline at (800) 986-8850. Both the website and the hotline operators have instructions for how to return the recalled Similac to Abbott.
The company said that consumers can return the product at no cost.
