Reckitt recalls two batches of infant formula

Dawn Furnas//February 20, 2023

Reckitt is voluntarily recalling two batches of ProSobee 12.9-ounce Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula because of a possibility of cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii.

In the Feb. 20 announcement, the Parsippany manufacturer said that, although all product was tested extensively and tested negative for the bacteria, the move was made was out of an abundance of caution. The recall involves approximately 145,000 cans of formula.

In the statement, Reckitt said, “After a thorough investigation, we have identified the root cause, which was linked to a material from a third party. We have taken all appropriate corrective actions, including no longer sourcing this material from the supplier.”

Reckitt, a producer of nutrition products, announced that, out of an abundance of caution, it has chosen to voluntarily recall two (2) select batches of ProSobee 12.9 oz. Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula due to a possibility of cross-contamination with Cronobacter sakazakii. — Recalled product batches feature the numbers ZL2HZF and ZL2HZZ on the bottom of the can both with a UPC code of 300871214415 and a “Use By Date” of “1 Mar 2024.” – BUSINESS WIRE

The company did not immediately return a request for comment about what prompted the testing for the bacteria on this specific product.

No illnesses or adverse consumer reactions have been reported to date, the company said, and no other products are affected.

ProSobee Simply Plant-Based Infant Formula in 12.9-ounce containers were manufactured between August 2022 and September 2022. The products were distributed through retail stores in the U.S., Guam and Puerto Rico. These batches can be identified by numbers on the bottom of the can: ZL2HZF and ZL2HZZ both with a UPC code of 300871214415 and a “Use By Date” of “1 Mar 2024.”

Consumers who have purchased these can with the numbers should dispose of the product or return to the store for a total refund. Consumers may also contact the company at 800-479-0551 or by email at [email protected].

“We are committed to the highest level of quality and safety and it is for this reason that we have taken this extraordinary measure,” the company said in a statement. “The batches in question tested negative for Cronobacter and other bacteria and this is an isolated situation.”

Cronobacter bacteria can cause severe, life-threatening infections (sepsis) or meningitis, Reckitt explained. Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis may include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice, grunting breaths and abnormal movements.