Abbott Labs Being Investigated Over Baby Formula, Company Says
Abbott Laboratories is being investigated by U.S. authorities for possible criminal conduct that led to last year’s shutdown of an infant formula plant in Sturgis, Michigan, due to product contamination, according to the company.
The U.S. Department of Justice A spokesperson for the DOJ stated that they are investigating the matter.
“DOJ has informed us of its investigation and we’re cooperating fully,” According to the spokesperson for Abbott
Abbott didn’t respond to a request for more information. DOJ officials didn’t return an inquiry.
Abbott, one of the largest U.S. formula manufacturers in the country, issued a voluntary recall in February 2022 after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Americans not to use some products made at one of the company’s plants in Sturgis. Following a whistleblower’s complaint, an investigation found unsanitary conditions.
Dr. Robert Califf was the commissioner of Food and Drug Administration and stated that the investigation had produced positive results during a congressional session “were shocking,” Described the conditions he described “egregiously unsanitary.”
Cronobacter Kazakii was found at the facility by regulators. This bacteria can contaminate dry products, such as infant formula powder. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began an investigation into several cases, including several deaths. Authorities said they were unable to find a definitive connection between the illnesses and Abbott’s products. Abbott claimed that none of its formulas tested positive to Cronobacter.
The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 prohibits “adulterated food,” Foods that are good for you. “contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health,” There are some exceptions. People or companies that enter adulterated food into “interstate commerce “can be prosecuted under the law.
Interstate commerce includes selling products, shipping them to other states, and contracting with someone to ship the product to another state.
The plant shut down led to shortages of baby formula, which plagued new parents for many months.
After U.S. officials and Abbott agreed on a plan, the Sturgis plant opened in mid-2022. This plan outlined steps the company would take to rectify any deficiencies.
“We understand the urgent need for formula and our top priority is getting high-quality, safe formula into the hands of families across America,” Abbott stated this as the plant was reopened.
“We will ramp production as quickly as we can, while meeting all requirements. We’re committed to safety and quality and will do everything we can to re-earn the trust parents, caregivers and health care providers have placed in us for 130 years.”
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