From Abbot,
Importantly,
no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of either of these bacteria, and we continue to test. Abbott conducts extensive quality checks on each completed batch of infant formula, including microbiological analysis prior to release. All finished infant formula powder products are tested for
Cronobacter, Salmonella, and other pathogens, and they must test negative before the product is released.
Additionally, retained samples related to the three complaints for Cronobacter sakazakii tested negative for Cronobacter. And the
retained sample related to the complaint for Salmonella Newport tested negative for Salmonella.
While A
bbott's testing of distributed product detected no pathogens, we are taking action by recalling the powder formula manufactured in this facility with an expiration of April 1, 2022, or later. No Abbott liquid formulas are included in the recall, nor are powder formulas or nutrition products from other facilities.
Abbots response to the recall claims no thing is wrong with the plant, but the whistleblower (who no longer works for the company) claims that the plant is covering up data. FDA testing seem to back up the company's line, but again the whistleblower complaint is that the FDA had information withheld from it. The two sides are completely at odds with only one side with evidence to back up their argument (the company). The question becomes is the company operating per standards today, and if so, why are they not back on line?
House Democrats are mad at the FDA (under Biden) because it had a slow response time to the whistleblower complaint in Sept of 2021. They also seem to support the whistleblower's claims, and promise to continue the investigation.
Lost in all of this is that imports from Europe have been bared because of refrigeration issues with the shipping. Even if the Biden administration opens up imports from Europe mother will have issues with mixtures as the US and Europe are different, and the refrigeration issue may still be present.
The entire affair is a mess and add in now the Biden admin shipping pallets of formula to the border for illegals, while leaving American shelves bare. It is a complete cluster. This would definitely be one of those times we should all agree that having a business background in the oval office as opposed to a political one, would be helpful. It doesn't seem help is coming any time soon.