In a recent development concerning infant nutrition, there has been an urgent recall of over 657,000 cans of infant formula due to potential bacterial contamination. The recall pertains to Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Powder, a specialized formula typically given to infants with cow’s milk allergies. Reckitt and Mead Johnson Nutrition, the manufacturers of Enfamil and Nutramigen, made this voluntary recall decision after conducting product sample testing outside of the United States.
The decision to recall these specific batches of Nutramigen Powder was prompted by the discovery of potential cross-contamination in product samples from outside the U.S. While both Reckitt/Mead Johnson and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted tests on samples from the affected batch, all results returned negative for contamination. However, given the paramount responsibility of providing safe nutrition to vulnerable infants, Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition opted to recall select batches of Nutramigen as a precautionary measure.
Parents who rely on Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition products, including Nutramigen powder formula, are assured that they can continue to safely feed their infants with confidence. The recall solely encompasses Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula cans of 12.6 and 19.8 ounces, manufactured in June 2023. It is essential to note that Reckitt’s liquid formulas and other nutrition products remain unaffected by this recall.
The reason behind the recall is the potential contamination of Cronobacter sakazakii, a type of bacteria commonly found in dry goods such as powdered milk, infant formula, and herbal tea, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cronobacter sakazakii is the same bacteria responsible for past recalls of baby and infant formula, including Abbott’s recall that led to the closure of their Sturgis, Michigan plant in 2022.
Although Cronobacter sakazakii infections are rare, they can pose a severe threat, especially to infants under 2 months of age, premature babies, babies with weakened immune systems, and older adults over the age of 65. Infections in infants may manifest as fever, extreme fatigue, feeding difficulties, seizures, inflammation around the brain and spinal cord, and potentially life-threatening complications.
It is noteworthy that Reckitt and Mead Johnson Nutrition have not received any reports of illnesses associated with this recall, underscoring the importance of proactive measures to ensure infant safety and well-being.
For individuals or families who may have been affected by this recall and have experienced harm or distress due to the consumption of the recalled infant formula, seeking legal recourse through a product liability lawsuit is a viable option.
A product liability lawsuit in this context would involve holding the manufacturer, Reckitt and Mead Johnson Nutrition, accountable for producing and distributing a product with potential contamination that could harm infants and young children. The lawsuit process typically consists of several essential steps:
- Consultation with an Attorney: Victims or their families should consult with a skilled product liability attorney experienced in handling cases related to defective products. The attorney will assess the case’s merits, provide legal guidance, and formulate a legal strategy.
- Investigation: The attorney initiates an in-depth investigation to gather evidence supporting the claim. This includes collecting medical records, product documentation, expert opinions, and witness statements to establish a compelling case.
- Filing the Lawsuit: If the case has a strong foundation, the attorney files a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer. This legal document outlines the allegations, demands for compensation, and the legal basis for the claim.
- Discovery: Both parties engage in the discovery process, where they exchange information, evidence, and documents related to the case. This phase allows each side to better understand the facts and arguments.
- Negotiation or Trial: In many cases, negotiations between the parties may lead to a settlement agreement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
Throughout this legal journey, having an attorney is crucial for victims. An attorney provides invaluable assistance in navigating the complex legal system, advocating for the victim’s rights, negotiating with the manufacturer, and ensuring that the victim’s interests are safeguarded.
In a successful product liability lawsuit against Reckitt and Mead Johnson Nutrition, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for all medical costs incurred as a result of injuries or illnesses caused by the contaminated infant formula.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional distress endured by the affected infants and their families.
- Lost Income: Compensation for income lost due to caring for an ill child or dealing with the consequences of the contaminated formula.
- Other Compensatory Damages: Additional losses, such as property damage or other expenses incurred due to the contaminated product.
For those who have been impacted by this recall, seeking legal counsel is essential to protect their rights and pursue fair compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one has suffered due to the consumption of the recalled Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Powder, consider reaching out to a qualified product liability attorney who can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Don’t let your rights go unprotected; take a proactive step toward justice and accountability. Your child’s safety and well-being deserve the utmost attention, and pursuing a product liability lawsuit is a critical step in ensuring that manufacturers prioritize the safety of their products. Call Parker Waichman LLP today, and let your voice be heard in the pursuit of justice for affected infants and their families.
As a leading national product injury law firm, Parker Waichman LLP is committed to assisting victims of defective products in their pursuit of justice. With their extensive experience and resources, they are well-equipped to handle complex product liability cases. Victims can take immediate action by contacting Parker Waichman LLP at 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) for a free consultation and expert legal advice.
Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide personal injury law firm is ready to assist you.
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