Jess Hardiman
A baby formula manufacturer is urgently recalling a number of its products over fears it could contain bacteria that can trigger seizures and sepsis.
Cronobacter sakazakii is a form of pathogenic bacteria that can cause illness, especially among infants.
The germs can cause sepsis, a dangerous blood infection, and meningitis, with symptoms of Cronobacter illness including fever, poor feeding, excessive crying, low energy and seizures.
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The bacteria are found naturally in the environment, but can live in dry foods like powdered formula and herbal teas.
Manufacturer Reckitt has recalled three of its formula powders after an ‘isolated overseas sample’ tested positive for Cronobacter sakazakii.
The products have been pulled as a ‘precautionary measure’ , with Reckitt confirming the recall applies to Nutramigen LGG stage 1 and stage 2 Hypoallergenic Formula powders.
A food alert from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) said the formula powders are 'used for special medical purposes for infants’, adding: “The products are mainly prescribed but are also available without a prescription.”
The FSA’s risk statement warned that there was a ‘potential presence’ of Cronobacter sakazakii in the listed items.
"Symptoms caused by Cronobacter sakazakii usually include fever and diarrhoea,” it explained.
"In severe cases, it may lead to sepsis or meningitis, which include symptoms in infants including poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice (yellow skin and whites of the eyes) and abnormal breaths and movements."
Products recalled by Reckitt:
In advice to customers, the FSA added: "If you have purchased or been prescribed any of the above product batches, do not feed it to your baby and return to the place of purchase.
“If you have additional questions, please contact Reckitt on 01895 230575.
“If you have any concerns about the health of your baby, please seek medical advice.”
Reckitt has contacted all stores and pharmacies that are supplying these products, having also issued a recall notice to customers.
“At Reckitt, we are committed to the highest level of quality and safety, and the health and safety of infants is our highest priority,” the notice said.
“As a precaution we are recalling the batches of the Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 and stage 2 set out in this notice due to an isolated overseas sample of the product testing positive for Cronobacter sakazakii, whilst we continue to conduct a thorough investigation.
“In the meantime please do not use the batches of the products below and return them to the pharmacy that dispensed them to you.”