The FDA has said they have found no trace of Cronobacter in Enfamil powdered baby formula. The formula was voluntarily recalled last week when a 10-day-old Missouri infant died after being fed the formula.
Four infants became ill with Cronobacter, which only rarely causes illness. Two infants, one in Florida and one in Missouri, died of Cronobacter illness in the last two weeks. Two other infants developed Cronobacter infection, but have since recovered.
The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a joint statement on Friday which states, “Based on test results to date, there is no need for a recall of infant formula, and parents may continue to use powdered infant formula, following the manufacturer’s directions on the printed label.”
Cronobacter was found in samples taken from the families’ homes: in an open container of infant formula, in prepared infant formula, and in an open bottle of water. Officials do not know how the contamination happened. It may have occurred after the packages were opened. Genetic testing on the Cronobacter did not match, so there is probably no connection between the cases.
Infections from this strain of bacteria are rare. There are usually only four to six cases every year in the United States. In 2011, there have been twelve cases. Cronobacter is found in homes and hospitals and is ubiquitous in the environment. It grows quickly in reconstituted powdered infant formula.
Always make fresh formula every time you feed your baby, and always follow safety rules when you prepare formula.
