FOOD Desperate parents can't find baby formula amid national shortage & stores ration cans after infection killed baby and caused huge recall
- Thread starter hunybee
- Start date
undead
Veteran Member
it ain't about that - some cannot breastfeed
hunybee
Veteran Member
Mary Contrary
Inactive
You know what really pisses me off? In 1971 the hospital knew I wanted to breastfeed. So what did they do? They gave me a little bottle of SUGAR WATER and said to feed him that first and THEN breast feed.
I wasn't dumb at 22. I knew that if I gave him the sugar water he wouldn't be hungry for my milk! So I squeezed half of the sugar water on the floor and told them he drank half. I only nursed him. Boy, right off the bat they tried to screw up my nursing plans.
I wasn't dumb at 22. I knew that if I gave him the sugar water he wouldn't be hungry for my milk! So I squeezed half of the sugar water on the floor and told them he drank half. I only nursed him. Boy, right off the bat they tried to screw up my nursing plans.
Limner
Deceased
They want babies dead. If not by abortion, then by starvation.i have been trying to confirm how it is transmitted and the biggest means of doing so. it almost seems that there is a deliberate attempt of not saying how it happens. there also seems to be extremely vague and contradicting info.
from the cdc:
Frequently Asked Questions | Cronobacter | CDC
General information about Cronobacter, including frequently asked questions.www.cdc.gov
How is Cronobacter transmitted?
Cronobacter infections have been associated with consumption of reconstituted powdered infant formula. In several outbreak investigations, Cronobacter has been found in powdered infant formula that had been contaminated in the factory. In other cases, Cronobacter might have contaminated the powdered infant formula after it was opened at home or elsewhere.
Since the bacteria live in the environment, it’s possible there are other sources of infection. There have been no confirmed reports of Cronobacter infections spreading vertically or through person-to-person contact. However, other related bacteria commonly spread through person-to-person contact, especially in healthcare facilities when there are lapses in infection control practice.
also from the cdc:
Transmission | Cronobacter | CDC
How Cronobacter is spread in formula manufacturing facilities and in homes.
Transmission
Cronobacter, which used to be called Enterobacter sakazakii, is a germ that can live in very dry places. Cronobacter has been found in dry foods, like powdered infant formula, powdered milk, herbal teas, and starches. It has also been found in sewer water.
How Cronobacter is spread
Sometimes powdered formula gets germs in it while it is being made at the factory. Other times, Cronobacter can get into powdered infant formula after it is opened at home or somewhere else. Since Cronobacter germs live in the environment, there might be other ways babies can catch it. We do not know if Cronobacter infection can be spread from one person to another, but other types of bacteria spread this way, especially in hospitals if people do not wash their hands well.
Risks from factories and homes
Powdered infant formula is not germ-free. Formula manufacturers report that it is not possible to remove all germs from powdered infant formula. At the factory, Cronobacter could get into formula powder from ingredients used to make the formula or if the formula powder touches a Cronobacter-covered surface in the factory.
At home, Cronobacter could get into the formula if formula lids or scoops are placed on Cronobacter-covered surfaces and later touch the formula or if the formula is mixed with water or in a bottle that has Cronobacter in it.
Loretta Van Riet
Trying to hang out with the cool kids.
The evaporated mild and goat's milk baby formula recipes still exist.
View: https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1522955596634501122
hunybee
Veteran Member
There is another story I just found that makes me think so. I can't copy and paste it because I am out and on a cheap phone and cannot do that at the moment.
If someone is able to do it, I would appreciate it!
FDA refuses to say when America's largest formula plant will reopen
Abbott Laboratories claims it is not responsible for the bacteria outbreak that killed two babies. The formula manufacturer also said it is 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant.
hunybee
Veteran Member
Just what the damned hell is going on?!
If you read the article I posted above, you will say the same thing.
There is WAY more to this than it seems, and it isn't good.
My gut is telling me that it is of critical importance to jump now and get and/or figure out the long term strategy if you are one of the parents that needs the formula.
Like right now.
If even one more very small thing happens to disrupt the formula supply chain, it could be done.
And this is just talking about the formula. What the gov and these articles are NOT saying us even more curious and terrifying.
If the bacteria was not in the product, and not in the product area, where was it in the plant?
They say it was in a non product area. What exactly does that mean?
Was it in a bathroom? Was this because workers are infected and are not using good hygiene? Is this on purpose?
There are SO many questions with this that are not only not getting answered, but the lack of inquisitiveness surrounding this is alarming, yah?
The longer it goes on, the more questions arise.
If you read the article I posted above, you will say the same thing.
There is WAY more to this than it seems, and it isn't good.
My gut is telling me that it is of critical importance to jump now and get and/or figure out the long term strategy if you are one of the parents that needs the formula.
Like right now.
If even one more very small thing happens to disrupt the formula supply chain, it could be done.
And this is just talking about the formula. What the gov and these articles are NOT saying us even more curious and terrifying.
If the bacteria was not in the product, and not in the product area, where was it in the plant?
They say it was in a non product area. What exactly does that mean?
Was it in a bathroom? Was this because workers are infected and are not using good hygiene? Is this on purpose?
There are SO many questions with this that are not only not getting answered, but the lack of inquisitiveness surrounding this is alarming, yah?
The longer it goes on, the more questions arise.
hunybee
Veteran Member
read the comments at the link
www.dailymail.co.uk
FDA refuses to say when America's largest formula plant will reopen
Abbott Laboratories claims it is not responsible for the bacteria outbreak that killed two babies. The formula manufacturer also said it is 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant.
Secamp32
Veteran Member
My daughter was due in Feb of 2000. With all the "Year 2000 Timebomb" concerns, in December 1999 I bought several large cans of powdered baby formula at Costco. I was prepared in case the world did end and we needed formula. Luckily the world did not end and my daughter was exclusively breastfed. Better to have and not need then to need and not be able to get. If your kid needs some special formula for health reason you should have 6 months or a years worth stored or at least as much as you can use before it expires.
#1 oldskool
"You finally really did it. You maniacs!
My mom and dad NEVER had formula.......just more Darwin Awards to be handed out !
von Koehler
Has No Life - Lives on TB
I am sure to be attacked, but I wonder if why some men are so attracted to women with large breasts is that unconsciously it's a sign, a visual clue, that a woman could feed an infant?
Evolution would favor a fertile woman who could supply enough milk for her child.
Somehow, some men would realize this and seek out these women as mates.
Evolution would favor a fertile woman who could supply enough milk for her child.
Somehow, some men would realize this and seek out these women as mates.
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bw
Fringe Ranger
Mprepared
Veteran Member
This is one good reason to stock up and not just baby food and then when you come home put your food on the shelf and do not eat it. Let a month or so go and if stocked up then it might be a year, but let the recalls happen and you will be safe. So many different food recalls. There was even Gold Medal flour one year and organic vegetables from Costco and all the Romaine lettuce. Actually, dangerous to open something and eat it.
Melodi
Disaster Cat
OK here's one part of the problem, much as I love to see the Irish economy do well and provide jobs for citizens, making baby formula in Ireland for the US market seems to be a symptom of the sort of "off-shoring" that means the supply chain issues are much worse than if more things were produced locally or at least in the same market. Now I gather there are plants in the US that are shut down, so it isn't quite as bad as this normally. Here's is an article from today's Irish News, note the increase production in IRELAND, at the IRISH factory for the US formula market.
And guys, just a note, lots of babies used to just "die," so did small children - even when I was a child in the late 50s and early 1960s, it wasn't that uncommon (enough that I remember it) for someone's little brother or sister to just be "gone." These days, it is very shocking when that happens (and that is a good thing). I will save other comments for the other thread when I get around to it.
www.rte.ie
Major US retailers limit baby formula over shortages
Updated / Wednesday, 11 May 2022 09:13
A near empty shelf with baby formula products at a Target supermarket in Orlando
US retailers including Target, CVS Health Corp and Walgreens said they have limited purchases of infant formula due to a supply shortage.
The limits come after top supplier Abbott Laboratories in February recalled some baby formula including Similac made at its plant in Michigan over complaints of bacterial infections in babies who consumed the products.
CVS said it last month limited in-store and online purchases of the products to three per order, while Walgreens issued a similar cap in March. Kroger has a limit of four products per customer and Target has had restrictions on online sales for weeks.
Abbott said it was "doing everything" it can to address the shortage, including prioritising production of the products and air shipping them from its US drug regulator-approved facility in Ireland.
The company is also working closely with the Food and Drug Administration to restart operations at its Michigan facility, a spokesperson said.
No formula that has been distributed has tested positive for bacteria, according to the company.
The Similac maker is the leading supplier of milk formula in the United States with a market share of about 42% in 2021, followed by British consumer goods firm Reckitt Benckiser with a nearly 38% share, according to Euromonitor data.
The FDA said it is taking several steps including working with Abbott and other manufacturers to alleviate supply issues.
The agency said several infant formula manufacturers are meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand and that more infant formula was purchased in the month of April than in the month prior to the recall.
"We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.
About 40% of baby formula products were out of stock across the United States last month, said Ben Reich, the chief executive of data firm Datasembly.
Supply chain snags, product recalls and historic inflation have compounded the shortage, he added.
And guys, just a note, lots of babies used to just "die," so did small children - even when I was a child in the late 50s and early 1960s, it wasn't that uncommon (enough that I remember it) for someone's little brother or sister to just be "gone." These days, it is very shocking when that happens (and that is a good thing). I will save other comments for the other thread when I get around to it.
Major US retailers limit baby formula over shortages
US retailers including Target, CVS Health Corp and Walgreens said they have limited purchases of infant formula due to a supply shortage.
Updated / Wednesday, 11 May 2022 09:13
A near empty shelf with baby formula products at a Target supermarket in Orlando
US retailers including Target, CVS Health Corp and Walgreens said they have limited purchases of infant formula due to a supply shortage.
The limits come after top supplier Abbott Laboratories in February recalled some baby formula including Similac made at its plant in Michigan over complaints of bacterial infections in babies who consumed the products.
CVS said it last month limited in-store and online purchases of the products to three per order, while Walgreens issued a similar cap in March. Kroger has a limit of four products per customer and Target has had restrictions on online sales for weeks.
Abbott said it was "doing everything" it can to address the shortage, including prioritising production of the products and air shipping them from its US drug regulator-approved facility in Ireland.
The company is also working closely with the Food and Drug Administration to restart operations at its Michigan facility, a spokesperson said.
No formula that has been distributed has tested positive for bacteria, according to the company.
The Similac maker is the leading supplier of milk formula in the United States with a market share of about 42% in 2021, followed by British consumer goods firm Reckitt Benckiser with a nearly 38% share, according to Euromonitor data.
The FDA said it is taking several steps including working with Abbott and other manufacturers to alleviate supply issues.
The agency said several infant formula manufacturers are meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand and that more infant formula was purchased in the month of April than in the month prior to the recall.
"We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.
About 40% of baby formula products were out of stock across the United States last month, said Ben Reich, the chief executive of data firm Datasembly.
Supply chain snags, product recalls and historic inflation have compounded the shortage, he added.
People are sooo easily given what to think.
The government doesn’t want people to think that maybe baby’s are impacted by the stuff floating around the mothers from the vaccine and the Chinese bio weapon.
So stop looking at Fauci and look over here while government shutdowns production. Gee whiz Walley the WEF wants food shortages we get food shortages.
It almost as if everything bad is actually because of specific actions from the democrats running the country.
The government doesn’t want people to think that maybe baby’s are impacted by the stuff floating around the mothers from the vaccine and the Chinese bio weapon.
So stop looking at Fauci and look over here while government shutdowns production. Gee whiz Walley the WEF wants food shortages we get food shortages.
It almost as if everything bad is actually because of specific actions from the democrats running the country.
Samuel Adams
Has No Life - Lives on TB
Close, but not quite.
The ills we face cannot be laid at the feet of either worthless political party.
We own those ills, for giving up on running our own damned country.
(no offense, America)
There are ways around these limits.....OK here's one part of the problem, much as I love to see the Irish economy do well and provide jobs for citizens, making baby formula in Ireland for the US market seems to be a symptom of the sort of "off-shoring" that means the supply chain issues are much worse than if more things were produced locally or at least in the same market. Now I gather there are plants in the US that are shut down, so it isn't quite as bad as this normally. Here's is an article from today's Irish News, note the increase production in IRELAND, at the IRISH factory for the US formula market.
And guys, just a note, lots of babies used to just "die," so did small children - even when I was a child in the late 50s and early 1960s, it wasn't that uncommon (enough that I remember it) for someone's little brother or sister to just be "gone." These days, it is very shocking when that happens (and that is a good thing). I will save other comments for the other thread when I get around to it.
Major US retailers limit baby formula over shortagesMajor US retailers limit baby formula over shortages
US retailers including Target, CVS Health Corp and Walgreens said they have limited purchases of infant formula due to a supply shortage.
Updated / Wednesday, 11 May 2022 09:13
A near empty shelf with baby formula products at a Target supermarket in Orlando
US retailers including Target, CVS Health Corp and Walgreens said they have limited purchases of infant formula due to a supply shortage.
The limits come after top supplier Abbott Laboratories in February recalled some baby formula including Similac made at its plant in Michigan over complaints of bacterial infections in babies who consumed the products.
CVS said it last month limited in-store and online purchases of the products to three per order, while Walgreens issued a similar cap in March. Kroger has a limit of four products per customer and Target has had restrictions on online sales for weeks.
Abbott said it was "doing everything" it can to address the shortage, including prioritising production of the products and air shipping them from its US drug regulator-approved facility in Ireland.
The company is also working closely with the Food and Drug Administration to restart operations at its Michigan facility, a spokesperson said.
No formula that has been distributed has tested positive for bacteria, according to the company.
The Similac maker is the leading supplier of milk formula in the United States with a market share of about 42% in 2021, followed by British consumer goods firm Reckitt Benckiser with a nearly 38% share, according to Euromonitor data.
The FDA said it is taking several steps including working with Abbott and other manufacturers to alleviate supply issues.
The agency said several infant formula manufacturers are meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand and that more infant formula was purchased in the month of April than in the month prior to the recall.
"We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.
About 40% of baby formula products were out of stock across the United States last month, said Ben Reich, the chief executive of data firm Datasembly.
Supply chain snags, product recalls and historic inflation have compounded the shortage, he added.
Damn if you don’t have a good but sad point.
I would say that the current clown show is amazingly 100% wrong and destructive in the policies and actions. The other party would be maybe 50% wrong.
LibertyInNH
Senior Member
It would be interesting to know the percentages of women with nursing babies who use formula for convenience rather than medical limitations.
My guess is that there would be plenty of "formula" available for those truly in need.
But again, God already made provisions for "formula" when mothers CANNOT breast feed.
hunybee
Veteran Member
If you could please take that discussion to the other thread, that would be great. Thank you!
pinkelsteinsmom
Veteran Member
Sorry if this has been mentioned, I haven't been able to read the last three pages.
When there was no formula or baby food of any kind in the 30's and 40's, poor people would cook a meal, eat a bite chew it up and then spoon it to the babies. My Mother raised all of us using this method. We all grew up strong, mean as snakes and became nurses, Doctor's, Indian chiefs and one odd ball
mafia hunter with a nationwide jurisdiction. Time to go back to basic's.
hunybee
Veteran Member
Abbott warns it may take TEN WEEKS to get baby formula back on shelves
Abbott Laboratories warned it could take more than two months to get their products back on retail shelves once the FDA gives the go to reopen its Michigan plant.
Abbott warns it will take TEN WEEKS to get baby formula products on shelves when FDA finally allows its biggest factory to reopen as crisis for parents across US trying to feed their kids deepens
- Sen. Mitt Romney has slammed the FDA for keeping the largest baby formula plant in the U.S. closed
- He demands to know when the Abbott Laboratories plant in Michigan will reopen
- Romney wants the FDA and USDA to do more to ensure the availability of baby formula and provide an update on its investigation into the Abbott plant
- The Republican legislator also questioned the quality of FDA inspections, citing how there were contamination reports at the plant dating back to 2019
- Romney's push comes as parents and health experts are calling on federal authorities to reopen the plant amid a national baby formula shortage
- Are you a parent struggling to get hold of formula milk? Contact natasha.anderson@mailonline.com
America's largest baby formula manufacturer warned it could take more than two months to get their products back on retail shelves once the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gives the go to reopen its Michigan plant.
Abbott Laboratories, which shut down its major plant in Sturgis, Michigan in February, announced Wednesday that with FDA approval the site could be restarted in two weeks.
However, the manufacturer claims it will take another eight weeks before the stock of baby formula is replenished, which is far from optimistic for parents scrambling to find baby formula amid supply disruptions and Abbott's massive safety recall.
'We understand the situation is urgent – getting Sturgis up and running will help alleviate this shortage,' the company said in a statement Wednesday. 'We would begin production of EleCare, Alimentum and metabolic formulas first and then begin production of Similac and other formulas. From the time we restart the site, it will take six to eight weeks before product is available on shelves.'
The news comes amid a nationwide infant formula shortage and just hours after lawmakers on Capitol Hill announced the House Energy and Commerce Committee will hold a hearing in two weeks to address the 'increasingly alarming' situation.
The House of Representatives panel, which is scheduled to meet May 25, did not name any company executives or other witnesses, but said it would release more details before the meeting.
Meanwhile, Republican Sen. Mitt Romney slammed the FDA for 'risking the lives of infants across the nation' by forcing America's biggest baby formula plant to stay closed while desperate parents scramble to feed their children.
Abbott Laboratories, which shut down its major plant in Sturgis, Michigan (pictured) in February, announced that with FDA approval the site could be restarted in two weeks
Abbott, after nearly three months of being shutdown, addressed the FDA's investigation into its plant on Wednesday.
The regulatory agency concluded its inspection of the plant on March 18, according to Abbott, issuing a list of observations identifying where the company did not follow processes and could improve its systems and protocols.
The manufacturer, announcing it formally responded to the FDA's report on April 8, said it takes the matter 'very seriously'.
'Even before our formal response, we had begun working to address these issues, implement improvements and take corrective action,' Abbott shared, noting officials started by reviewing and updating education, training and safety procedures for both employees and visitors.
Plant officials also updated their protocols regarding water, cleaning and maintenance at the facility.
The company says it 'immediately implemented' corrections to address the concerns raised by the FDA, adding they are aware their shut down and product recall had worsened the nationwide baby formula shortage.
'We've been seeing and hearing the stress and despair of parents who are facing empty shelves,' Abbott said. 'We deeply regret the situation and since the recall, we've been working to increase supply at our other FDA-registered facilities, including bringing in Similac from our site in Cootehill, Ireland, by air and producing more liquid Similac and Alimentum.
'We also began releasing metabolic formulas that were on hold earlier this month at FDA's request to those who need these unique formulas.'
Abbott released a statement Wednesday detailing its response to the FDA's investigation of its plant. The company 'immediately implemented' corrections to address the agency's concerns
Abbott's statement comes as about 40 percent of large retail stores are out of stock of baby formula, up from 31 percent in mid-April, according to Datasembly, a data analytics firm.
More than half of U.S. states are seeing out-of-stock rates between 40 percent and 50 percent, according to the firm, which collects data from 11,000 locations.
Congress will hold a hearing to focus on the shortage's causes, efforts to increase production, and what action is needed 'to ensure access to safe formula across the nation,' the committee chair, Representative Frank Pallone, a Democrat, said in a statement.
'The nationwide infant formula shortages are increasingly alarming and demand Congress' immediate attention,' he said.
White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday also said it was a top priority to ensure that baby formula is available amid the shortage.
'This is an urgent issue that the FDA as you all know and the White House is working 24/7 to address they are committed to pulling every lever and are ready to making progress and getting more supply onto the market,' she said.
Pallone said lawmakers stood ready to work with President Joe Biden's administration to resolve the shortage, although it is unclear what specific steps Congress or the White House can take to boost supplies near-term.
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Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota, seemingly hardest hit by the shortages, reported out-of-stock rates of about 50%
Meantime, Sen. Romney wants the FDA and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to do more to ensure the availability of baby formula, citing 'serious implications of the current shortage on infant health,' and asked for an update on the investigation into the alleged contaminated formula that forced the recall and shutdown of the plant.
'The responsibility falls on the FDA and the USDA to protect infant health by ensuring they have access to safe formula,' Romney penned Tuesday in a letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf and Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.
'Given the serious implications of the current shortage on infant health, I am deeply concerned about the apparent lack of an effective mitigation strategy and urge both agencies to move as fast as possible to safely resolve this situation.'
The plant ceased operation nearly three months ago after a bacterial infection caused deaths of two children and other serious illnesses. Abbott has since denied its plant is responsible for the deaths.
The manufacturer also issued a nationwide recall on its powder baby formulas in February, exacerbating months of spot shortages at pharmacies and supermarkets.
Now, pediatricians, healthcare experts and politicians are urging the FDA to reopen the plant and distribute Abbott's formula to families in need.
'There's still some risk from the formula because we know there are problems at the plant and FDA hasn't identified a root cause,' said Sarah Sorscher of the Center for Science in the Public Interest. 'But it's worth releasing because these infants might die without it.'
The FDA issued a statement to DailyMail.com on Tuesday, alleging it was working with U.S. manufacturers to increase their output and streamlining paperwork to allow more imports.
An Abbott spokesperson also confirmed the manufacturer was 'doing everything we can to address the infant formula supply shortage,' which includes priorities production of formula products and importing products from the company's FDA-registered facility in Ireland on a daily basis.
Abbott's statement came just hours after Rep. Frank Pallone (left) and other lawmakers on Capitol Hill announced the House Energy and Commerce Committee will hold a hearing in two weeks to address the 'increasingly alarming' formula shortage. The response also came after Sen. Mitt Romney (right) slammed the FDA for 'risking the lives of infants across the nation'
Sen. Romney argues the FDA and USDA have a 'responsibility' to mitigate the impacts of the shortage.
'Please provide a comprehensive update on the progress of the investigation, estimated timeline to completion, efforts to coordinate with other federal agencies, including the USDA, and any other authorities that may be necessary to help relieve the formula shortage,' he urged.
'Between the risk of ingesting contaminated formula, and the risk of malnutrition from an inability to receive said formula, the FDA is an exceedingly difficult position protecting infant health.
'I appreciate the FDA’s efforts to support case-by-case release of essential product, but the pace of release is far slower than demand felt across our nation. In its attempt to balance safety from contaminated product and safe infant development through formula access, FDA is achieving neither objective.'
The Republican legislator also criticized the quality of the FDA's inspections at the Abbott plant, citing instances of possible contamination dating back to 2019.
'I am alarmed to see documented instances of non-descript contamination in September 24, 2021, and inadequate sample testing to prove formula products met microbiological quality standards in 2019,' Romney wrote.
Sen. Mitt Romney has questioned the FDA's inspection process and is demanding to know what steps were taken to ensure the 'contaminated products did not leave the facility' after initial inspections in 2019 and 2021
'This documentation suggests FDA’s routine inspection authority is insufficient to meet consumer safety demands, yet its hammer of near-shutdowns of facilities causes a ripple effect throughout the country.'
The FDA, which claims Abbott failed to maintain sanitary conditions and procedures at its Michigan manufacturing plant that was linked to a cluster of infant Cronobacter sakazaki infections, published its initial inspection findings in March 2022.
The findings showed the facility didn’t maintain clean surfaces used in producing and handling the powdered formula.
Additionally, inspectors found a history of contamination with the bacteria, including eight instances between fall 2019 and February of this year.
An Abbott spokesperson told DailyMail.com Tuesday that 'thorough investigation' by the FDA and Abbott revealed 'infant formula produced at our Sturgis facility is not the likely source of infection in the reported cases and that there was not an outbreak caused by products from the facility'.
Regardless, Romney has questioned the FDA's inspection process and is demanding to know what steps were taken to ensure the 'contaminated products did not leave the facility' after initial inspections in 2019 and 2021.
continued...........
hunybee
Veteran Member
......continued....
White House press secretary Jenn Psaki said Monday the Food and Drug Administration was 'working around the clock to address any possible shortages,' however shelves across the country meant to carry formula remain largely barren.
Retailers including Target, CVS and Walgreens have begun limiting formula purchases to three containers per customer.
For now, pediatricians and health workers are urging parents who can't find formula to contact food banks or doctor's offices. They warn against watering down formula to stretch supplies or using online DIY recipes.
'For babies who are not being breastfed, this is the only thing they eat,' said Dr. Steven Abrams, of the University of Texas, Austin. 'So it has to have all of their nutrition and, furthermore, it needs to be properly prepared so that it's safe for the smallest infants.'
The shortages are especially dangerous for infants who require specialty formulas due to food allergies, digestive problems and other conditions.
'Unfortunately, many of those very specialized formulas are only made in the United States at the factory that had the recall, and that's caused a huge problem for a relatively small number of infants,' Abrams said.
After hearing concerns from parents, the FDA said last month that Abbott could begin releasing some specialty formulas not affected by the recalls 'on a case-by-case basis.' The company is providing them free of charge, in coordination with physicians and hospitals.
Food safety advocates say the FDA made the right call in releasing the formula, but that parents should talk to their pediatricians before using it.
'Always talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby's nutrition and feeding your baby,' Dr. Sarah Abrams, of Akron Children's Hospital in Ohio, told Fox News.
'Switch to other formula brands or types of formula,' she advised to parents struggling to find product, 'but talk to your pediatrician first, especially if your baby must use a hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formula.'
The pediatrician also shared that due to the Abbott recall, parents have been fearful of that other brands of formula may have been contaminated.
'I have been told that due to the recall, [parents] were afraid to use the formula they had, even if it wasn't one that was recalled,' she explained. 'And if they do find formula, they worry about the limits of how much formula they can buy at one time.
'They are calling our office and we are helping them by reaching out to local formula representatives.'
Despite the results of the investigation and pressure from experts and concerned parents, it remains unclear when Abbott's Michigan plant might reopen.
The FDA said the company is still working 'to rectify findings related to the processes, procedures and conditions' but refused to say when the plant can resume operations.
Other infant formula makers are 'meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand,' the agency stated Tuesday.
Among other steps, the FDA said it was waiving enforcement of minor product labeling issues to increase availability of both U.S. and imported products.
'We recognize that many consumers have been unable to access infant formula and critical medical foods they are accustomed to using and are frustrated by their inability to do so. We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it,' FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. told DailyMail.com in a statement.
'Ensuring the availability of safe, sole-source nutrition products like infant formula is of the utmost importance to the FDA.
Our teams have been working tirelessly to address and alleviate supply issues and will continue doing everything within our authority to ensure the production of safe infant formula products.'
Baby formula is particularly vulnerable to disruptions because just a handful of companies account for almost the entire U.S. supply, analysts allege.
Industry executives say the constraints began last year as the COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in ingredients, labor and transportation. Supplies were further squeezed by parents stockpiling during lockdowns.
Then in February, Abbott recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis, Michigan, factory when federal officials concluded four babies suffered bacterial infections after consuming formula from the facility. Two of the infants died.
When FDA inspectors visited the plant in March they found lax safety protocols and traces of the bacteria on several surfaces. None of the bacterial strains matched those collected from the infants, however, and the FDA hasn't offered an explanation for how the contamination occurred.
For its part, Abbott says its formula 'is not likely the source of infection,' though the FDA says its investigation continues.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson on Tuesday noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
Meanwhile, parents are across the nation are issuing alarming calls for help as they try to find ways to nourish their children.
Laura Stewart, a 52-year-old mother of three who lives just north of Springfield, Missouri, has been struggling for several weeks to find formula for her 10-month-old daughter, Riley.
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Baby formula is stored in a locked case, with shelves half empty, at a Walmart store on Tuesday
Riley normally gets a brand of Abbott's Similac designed for children with sensitive stomachs. Last month, she instead used four different brands.
'She spits up more. She's just more cranky. She is typically a very happy girl,' Stewart said. 'When she has the right formula, she doesn't spit up. She's perfectly fine.'
A small can costs $17 to $18 and lasts three to five days, Stewart said.
Like many Americans, Stewart relies on WIC - a federal program similar to food stamps that serves mothers and children - to afford formula for her daughter. Abbott's recall wiped out many WIC-covered brands, though the program is now allowing substitutions.
Brian Dittmeier, Senior Director of Public Policy at the WIC Association told DailyMail.com in a statement Tuesday that the 'unprecedented scope of this infant formula recall has serious consequences for babies and new parents.'
'Assurances from manufacturers that production has ramped up have not yet translated to new product on the shelf. Each day that this crisis continues, parents grow more anxious and desperate to find what they need to feed their infants,' the statement said.
'Unlike other food recalls, shortages in the infant formula supply affects a major – or even exclusive – source of nutrition for babies. Inadequate nutrition could have long-term health implications for babies. Supply shortages are particularly acute for infants who require specialty formulas to address allergies, gastrointestinal issues, or metabolic disorders; adequate substitutes with other brands may not be easily identifiable.
'Every day, we hear from parents who are hurt, angry, anxious, and scared. The lives of their infants are on the line. It is time for answers and accountability as we all work to improve the supply and ease the worries of parents enduring this national crisis.'
TIMELINE SHOWS HOW AMERICA'S LARGEST BABY FORMULA PLANT CEASED PRODUCTION
Abbott Laboratories, the biggest baby formula supplier in the U.S., ceased production at its Michigan plant in February 2022 amid reports of fatal bacterial infections.
A timeline of events shows reveals the shut down was the plant had previously been under scrutiny by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
September 2021: The FDA conducted a four-day inspection of the Abbott Laboratories plant in Sturgis, Michigan.
The inspection report revealed the plant 'did not maintain' clean and sanitary conditions in at least one building that manufactured, processed, packaged or held baby formula.
FDA officials also observed poor hand washing among Abbott plant staff who 'worked directly with infant formula.'
The FDA also noted an instance of improper equipment maintenance and temperature control.
October 2021: A whistleblower sends the FDA a 34-page document outlining potential concerns with the Sturgis plant.
The document, which was made public by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro in April 2022, was written by a former plant employee.
The employee accused the plant of lax cleaning practices, falsifying records, releasing untested infant formula, and hiding information during an FDA audit in 2019, among other issues.
January - March 2022: The FDA conducted multiple inspections at the Sturgis plant over the course of three months in 2022. A ten-page inspection report revealed multiple violations at the facility.
The agency alleged the plant failed to ensure that all surfaces that contact infant formula were maintained to prevent cross-contamination.
The report states the facility 'did not establish a system of process controls' to ensure the baby formula 'does not become adulterated due to the presence of microorganisms in the formula or the processing environment.'
Officials also alleged the plant failed to disclose in an investigation report whether a health hazard existed at the facility.
Additionally, the report stated plant workers were did not wear the 'necessary protective material' when working directly with infant formula.
February 17: U.S. health officials urgently warn parents against using three popular baby formulas manufactured at the Abbott plant in Michigan. Investigators claim the products were recently linked to bacterial contamination after an infant died and three others fell ill.
Abbott voluntarily recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis plant.
The FDA also said it is investigating four reports of infants who were hospitalized after consuming the formula, including one who died.
February 28: Abbott Laboratories expanded its recall of Similac baby formulas after a second infant who was exposed to the powdered baby formula died.
April 15: Abbott releases a statement alleging it is working closely with the FDA to restart operations at the Sturgis plant.
Week of April 24: The nationwide share of out-of-stock baby formula hit 40 percent.
Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota, seemingly hardest hit by the shortages, reported out-of-stock rates of about 50 percent.
May 10: Abbott releases a statement to DailyMail.com claiming 'thorough investigation' by the FDA and Abbott revealed 'infant formula produced at our Sturgis facility is not the likely source of infection in the reported cases and that there was not an outbreak caused by products from the facility'.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
The FDA told DailyMail.com it was holding discussions with 'Abbott and other manufacturers to increase production of different specialty and metabolic products' but refused to say when the Sturgis plant could reopen.
White House press secretary Jenn Psaki said Monday the Food and Drug Administration was 'working around the clock to address any possible shortages,' however shelves across the country meant to carry formula remain largely barren.
Retailers including Target, CVS and Walgreens have begun limiting formula purchases to three containers per customer.
For now, pediatricians and health workers are urging parents who can't find formula to contact food banks or doctor's offices. They warn against watering down formula to stretch supplies or using online DIY recipes.
'For babies who are not being breastfed, this is the only thing they eat,' said Dr. Steven Abrams, of the University of Texas, Austin. 'So it has to have all of their nutrition and, furthermore, it needs to be properly prepared so that it's safe for the smallest infants.'
The shortages are especially dangerous for infants who require specialty formulas due to food allergies, digestive problems and other conditions.
'Unfortunately, many of those very specialized formulas are only made in the United States at the factory that had the recall, and that's caused a huge problem for a relatively small number of infants,' Abrams said.
After hearing concerns from parents, the FDA said last month that Abbott could begin releasing some specialty formulas not affected by the recalls 'on a case-by-case basis.' The company is providing them free of charge, in coordination with physicians and hospitals.
Food safety advocates say the FDA made the right call in releasing the formula, but that parents should talk to their pediatricians before using it.
'Always talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby's nutrition and feeding your baby,' Dr. Sarah Abrams, of Akron Children's Hospital in Ohio, told Fox News.
'Switch to other formula brands or types of formula,' she advised to parents struggling to find product, 'but talk to your pediatrician first, especially if your baby must use a hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formula.'
The pediatrician also shared that due to the Abbott recall, parents have been fearful of that other brands of formula may have been contaminated.
'I have been told that due to the recall, [parents] were afraid to use the formula they had, even if it wasn't one that was recalled,' she explained. 'And if they do find formula, they worry about the limits of how much formula they can buy at one time.
'They are calling our office and we are helping them by reaching out to local formula representatives.'
Despite the results of the investigation and pressure from experts and concerned parents, it remains unclear when Abbott's Michigan plant might reopen.
The FDA said the company is still working 'to rectify findings related to the processes, procedures and conditions' but refused to say when the plant can resume operations.
Other infant formula makers are 'meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand,' the agency stated Tuesday.
Among other steps, the FDA said it was waiving enforcement of minor product labeling issues to increase availability of both U.S. and imported products.
'We recognize that many consumers have been unable to access infant formula and critical medical foods they are accustomed to using and are frustrated by their inability to do so. We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it,' FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. told DailyMail.com in a statement.
'Ensuring the availability of safe, sole-source nutrition products like infant formula is of the utmost importance to the FDA.
Our teams have been working tirelessly to address and alleviate supply issues and will continue doing everything within our authority to ensure the production of safe infant formula products.'
Baby formula is particularly vulnerable to disruptions because just a handful of companies account for almost the entire U.S. supply, analysts allege.
Industry executives say the constraints began last year as the COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in ingredients, labor and transportation. Supplies were further squeezed by parents stockpiling during lockdowns.
Then in February, Abbott recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis, Michigan, factory when federal officials concluded four babies suffered bacterial infections after consuming formula from the facility. Two of the infants died.
When FDA inspectors visited the plant in March they found lax safety protocols and traces of the bacteria on several surfaces. None of the bacterial strains matched those collected from the infants, however, and the FDA hasn't offered an explanation for how the contamination occurred.
For its part, Abbott says its formula 'is not likely the source of infection,' though the FDA says its investigation continues.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson on Tuesday noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
Meanwhile, parents are across the nation are issuing alarming calls for help as they try to find ways to nourish their children.
Laura Stewart, a 52-year-old mother of three who lives just north of Springfield, Missouri, has been struggling for several weeks to find formula for her 10-month-old daughter, Riley.
+11
View gallery
Baby formula is stored in a locked case, with shelves half empty, at a Walmart store on Tuesday
Riley normally gets a brand of Abbott's Similac designed for children with sensitive stomachs. Last month, she instead used four different brands.
'She spits up more. She's just more cranky. She is typically a very happy girl,' Stewart said. 'When she has the right formula, she doesn't spit up. She's perfectly fine.'
A small can costs $17 to $18 and lasts three to five days, Stewart said.
Like many Americans, Stewart relies on WIC - a federal program similar to food stamps that serves mothers and children - to afford formula for her daughter. Abbott's recall wiped out many WIC-covered brands, though the program is now allowing substitutions.
Brian Dittmeier, Senior Director of Public Policy at the WIC Association told DailyMail.com in a statement Tuesday that the 'unprecedented scope of this infant formula recall has serious consequences for babies and new parents.'
'Assurances from manufacturers that production has ramped up have not yet translated to new product on the shelf. Each day that this crisis continues, parents grow more anxious and desperate to find what they need to feed their infants,' the statement said.
'Unlike other food recalls, shortages in the infant formula supply affects a major – or even exclusive – source of nutrition for babies. Inadequate nutrition could have long-term health implications for babies. Supply shortages are particularly acute for infants who require specialty formulas to address allergies, gastrointestinal issues, or metabolic disorders; adequate substitutes with other brands may not be easily identifiable.
'Every day, we hear from parents who are hurt, angry, anxious, and scared. The lives of their infants are on the line. It is time for answers and accountability as we all work to improve the supply and ease the worries of parents enduring this national crisis.'
TIMELINE SHOWS HOW AMERICA'S LARGEST BABY FORMULA PLANT CEASED PRODUCTION
Abbott Laboratories, the biggest baby formula supplier in the U.S., ceased production at its Michigan plant in February 2022 amid reports of fatal bacterial infections.
A timeline of events shows reveals the shut down was the plant had previously been under scrutiny by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
September 2021: The FDA conducted a four-day inspection of the Abbott Laboratories plant in Sturgis, Michigan.
The inspection report revealed the plant 'did not maintain' clean and sanitary conditions in at least one building that manufactured, processed, packaged or held baby formula.
FDA officials also observed poor hand washing among Abbott plant staff who 'worked directly with infant formula.'
The FDA also noted an instance of improper equipment maintenance and temperature control.
October 2021: A whistleblower sends the FDA a 34-page document outlining potential concerns with the Sturgis plant.
The document, which was made public by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro in April 2022, was written by a former plant employee.
The employee accused the plant of lax cleaning practices, falsifying records, releasing untested infant formula, and hiding information during an FDA audit in 2019, among other issues.
January - March 2022: The FDA conducted multiple inspections at the Sturgis plant over the course of three months in 2022. A ten-page inspection report revealed multiple violations at the facility.
The agency alleged the plant failed to ensure that all surfaces that contact infant formula were maintained to prevent cross-contamination.
The report states the facility 'did not establish a system of process controls' to ensure the baby formula 'does not become adulterated due to the presence of microorganisms in the formula or the processing environment.'
Officials also alleged the plant failed to disclose in an investigation report whether a health hazard existed at the facility.
Additionally, the report stated plant workers were did not wear the 'necessary protective material' when working directly with infant formula.
February 17: U.S. health officials urgently warn parents against using three popular baby formulas manufactured at the Abbott plant in Michigan. Investigators claim the products were recently linked to bacterial contamination after an infant died and three others fell ill.
Abbott voluntarily recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis plant.
The FDA also said it is investigating four reports of infants who were hospitalized after consuming the formula, including one who died.
February 28: Abbott Laboratories expanded its recall of Similac baby formulas after a second infant who was exposed to the powdered baby formula died.
April 15: Abbott releases a statement alleging it is working closely with the FDA to restart operations at the Sturgis plant.
Week of April 24: The nationwide share of out-of-stock baby formula hit 40 percent.
Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota, seemingly hardest hit by the shortages, reported out-of-stock rates of about 50 percent.
May 10: Abbott releases a statement to DailyMail.com claiming 'thorough investigation' by the FDA and Abbott revealed 'infant formula produced at our Sturgis facility is not the likely source of infection in the reported cases and that there was not an outbreak caused by products from the facility'.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
The FDA told DailyMail.com it was holding discussions with 'Abbott and other manufacturers to increase production of different specialty and metabolic products' but refused to say when the Sturgis plant could reopen.
TKO
Veteran Member
Yeah. Contact food banks and your pediatrician. That's going to get you some formula for your baby. LOL! What dumbasses these leftards are.......continued....
White House press secretary Jenn Psaki said Monday the Food and Drug Administration was 'working around the clock to address any possible shortages,' however shelves across the country meant to carry formula remain largely barren.
Retailers including Target, CVS and Walgreens have begun limiting formula purchases to three containers per customer.
For now, pediatricians and health workers are urging parents who can't find formula to contact food banks or doctor's offices. They warn against watering down formula to stretch supplies or using online DIY recipes.
'For babies who are not being breastfed, this is the only thing they eat,' said Dr. Steven Abrams, of the University of Texas, Austin. 'So it has to have all of their nutrition and, furthermore, it needs to be properly prepared so that it's safe for the smallest infants.'
The shortages are especially dangerous for infants who require specialty formulas due to food allergies, digestive problems and other conditions.
'Unfortunately, many of those very specialized formulas are only made in the United States at the factory that had the recall, and that's caused a huge problem for a relatively small number of infants,' Abrams said.
After hearing concerns from parents, the FDA said last month that Abbott could begin releasing some specialty formulas not affected by the recalls 'on a case-by-case basis.' The company is providing them free of charge, in coordination with physicians and hospitals.
Food safety advocates say the FDA made the right call in releasing the formula, but that parents should talk to their pediatricians before using it.
'Always talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby's nutrition and feeding your baby,' Dr. Sarah Abrams, of Akron Children's Hospital in Ohio, told Fox News.
'Switch to other formula brands or types of formula,' she advised to parents struggling to find product, 'but talk to your pediatrician first, especially if your baby must use a hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formula.'
The pediatrician also shared that due to the Abbott recall, parents have been fearful of that other brands of formula may have been contaminated.
'I have been told that due to the recall, [parents] were afraid to use the formula they had, even if it wasn't one that was recalled,' she explained. 'And if they do find formula, they worry about the limits of how much formula they can buy at one time.
'They are calling our office and we are helping them by reaching out to local formula representatives.'
Despite the results of the investigation and pressure from experts and concerned parents, it remains unclear when Abbott's Michigan plant might reopen.
The FDA said the company is still working 'to rectify findings related to the processes, procedures and conditions' but refused to say when the plant can resume operations.
Other infant formula makers are 'meeting or exceeding capacity levels to meet current demand,' the agency stated Tuesday.
Among other steps, the FDA said it was waiving enforcement of minor product labeling issues to increase availability of both U.S. and imported products.
'We recognize that many consumers have been unable to access infant formula and critical medical foods they are accustomed to using and are frustrated by their inability to do so. We are doing everything in our power to ensure there is adequate product available where and when they need it,' FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. told DailyMail.com in a statement.
'Ensuring the availability of safe, sole-source nutrition products like infant formula is of the utmost importance to the FDA.
Our teams have been working tirelessly to address and alleviate supply issues and will continue doing everything within our authority to ensure the production of safe infant formula products.'
Baby formula is particularly vulnerable to disruptions because just a handful of companies account for almost the entire U.S. supply, analysts allege.
Industry executives say the constraints began last year as the COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in ingredients, labor and transportation. Supplies were further squeezed by parents stockpiling during lockdowns.
Then in February, Abbott recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis, Michigan, factory when federal officials concluded four babies suffered bacterial infections after consuming formula from the facility. Two of the infants died.
When FDA inspectors visited the plant in March they found lax safety protocols and traces of the bacteria on several surfaces. None of the bacterial strains matched those collected from the infants, however, and the FDA hasn't offered an explanation for how the contamination occurred.
For its part, Abbott says its formula 'is not likely the source of infection,' though the FDA says its investigation continues.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson on Tuesday noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
Meanwhile, parents are across the nation are issuing alarming calls for help as they try to find ways to nourish their children.
Laura Stewart, a 52-year-old mother of three who lives just north of Springfield, Missouri, has been struggling for several weeks to find formula for her 10-month-old daughter, Riley.
+11
View gallery
Parents across the nation are scrambling to feed their children because supply disruptions and a massive safety recall have swept many products off store shelves
Baby formula is stored in a locked case, with shelves half empty, at a Walmart store on Tuesday
Riley normally gets a brand of Abbott's Similac designed for children with sensitive stomachs. Last month, she instead used four different brands.
'She spits up more. She's just more cranky. She is typically a very happy girl,' Stewart said. 'When she has the right formula, she doesn't spit up. She's perfectly fine.'
A small can costs $17 to $18 and lasts three to five days, Stewart said.
Like many Americans, Stewart relies on WIC - a federal program similar to food stamps that serves mothers and children - to afford formula for her daughter. Abbott's recall wiped out many WIC-covered brands, though the program is now allowing substitutions.
Brian Dittmeier, Senior Director of Public Policy at the WIC Association told DailyMail.com in a statement Tuesday that the 'unprecedented scope of this infant formula recall has serious consequences for babies and new parents.'
'Assurances from manufacturers that production has ramped up have not yet translated to new product on the shelf. Each day that this crisis continues, parents grow more anxious and desperate to find what they need to feed their infants,' the statement said.
'Unlike other food recalls, shortages in the infant formula supply affects a major – or even exclusive – source of nutrition for babies. Inadequate nutrition could have long-term health implications for babies. Supply shortages are particularly acute for infants who require specialty formulas to address allergies, gastrointestinal issues, or metabolic disorders; adequate substitutes with other brands may not be easily identifiable.
'Every day, we hear from parents who are hurt, angry, anxious, and scared. The lives of their infants are on the line. It is time for answers and accountability as we all work to improve the supply and ease the worries of parents enduring this national crisis.'
TIMELINE SHOWS HOW AMERICA'S LARGEST BABY FORMULA PLANT CEASED PRODUCTION
Abbott Laboratories, the biggest baby formula supplier in the U.S., ceased production at its Michigan plant in February 2022 amid reports of fatal bacterial infections.
A timeline of events shows reveals the shut down was the plant had previously been under scrutiny by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
September 2021: The FDA conducted a four-day inspection of the Abbott Laboratories plant in Sturgis, Michigan.
The inspection report revealed the plant 'did not maintain' clean and sanitary conditions in at least one building that manufactured, processed, packaged or held baby formula.
FDA officials also observed poor hand washing among Abbott plant staff who 'worked directly with infant formula.'
The FDA also noted an instance of improper equipment maintenance and temperature control.
October 2021: A whistleblower sends the FDA a 34-page document outlining potential concerns with the Sturgis plant.
The document, which was made public by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro in April 2022, was written by a former plant employee.
The employee accused the plant of lax cleaning practices, falsifying records, releasing untested infant formula, and hiding information during an FDA audit in 2019, among other issues.
January - March 2022: The FDA conducted multiple inspections at the Sturgis plant over the course of three months in 2022. A ten-page inspection report revealed multiple violations at the facility.
The agency alleged the plant failed to ensure that all surfaces that contact infant formula were maintained to prevent cross-contamination.
The report states the facility 'did not establish a system of process controls' to ensure the baby formula 'does not become adulterated due to the presence of microorganisms in the formula or the processing environment.'
Officials also alleged the plant failed to disclose in an investigation report whether a health hazard existed at the facility.
Additionally, the report stated plant workers were did not wear the 'necessary protective material' when working directly with infant formula.
February 17: U.S. health officials urgently warn parents against using three popular baby formulas manufactured at the Abbott plant in Michigan. Investigators claim the products were recently linked to bacterial contamination after an infant died and three others fell ill.
Abbott voluntarily recalled several major brands and shut down its Sturgis plant.
The FDA also said it is investigating four reports of infants who were hospitalized after consuming the formula, including one who died.
February 28: Abbott Laboratories expanded its recall of Similac baby formulas after a second infant who was exposed to the powdered baby formula died.
April 15: Abbott releases a statement alleging it is working closely with the FDA to restart operations at the Sturgis plant.
Week of April 24: The nationwide share of out-of-stock baby formula hit 40 percent.
Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota, seemingly hardest hit by the shortages, reported out-of-stock rates of about 50 percent.
May 10: Abbott releases a statement to DailyMail.com claiming 'thorough investigation' by the FDA and Abbott revealed 'infant formula produced at our Sturgis facility is not the likely source of infection in the reported cases and that there was not an outbreak caused by products from the facility'.
Abbott claims they are 'working closely with the FDA to restart operations' at the plant, with the spokesperson noting: 'We continue to make progress on corrective actions and will be implementing additional actions as we work toward addressing items related to the recent recall'.
The FDA told DailyMail.com it was holding discussions with 'Abbott and other manufacturers to increase production of different specialty and metabolic products' but refused to say when the Sturgis plant could reopen.
vector7
Dot Collector
BREAKING: Biden Admin Shipping ‘Pallets’ of Baby Formula to Illegal Aliens, Says GOP Rep.
View: https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/1524715453926551553?t=utoH4nEMOy_vIwKP_tFbpw&s=19
View: https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/1524715453926551553?t=utoH4nEMOy_vIwKP_tFbpw&s=19
hunybee
Veteran Member
hunybee
Veteran Member
hunybee
Veteran Member
this is from one of the links in the article that is in the tweet from vector7 that he posted above:
View: https://twitter.com/Kat_Cammack/status/1524427674638336001
Kat Cammack
@Kat_Cammack
The first photo is from this morning at the Ursula Processing Center at the U.S. border. Shelves and pallets packed with baby formula. The second is from a shelf right here at home. Formula is scarce. This is what America last looks like.
View: https://twitter.com/Kat_Cammack/status/1524427674638336001
Kat Cammack
@Kat_Cammack
The first photo is from this morning at the Ursula Processing Center at the U.S. border. Shelves and pallets packed with baby formula. The second is from a shelf right here at home. Formula is scarce. This is what America last looks like.
hunybee
Veteran Member
this is the article in vector7's post
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The nationwide shortage of baby formula that has sent moms desperately rushing from store to store has evaded one lucky group: illegal immigrants detained by the border patrol.
According to videos posted by a Florida lawmaker, the Biden administration has been shipping “pallets” of baby formula to migrant holding facilities.
“They are sending pallets, pallets of baby formula to the border,” said Republican Rep. Kat Cammack in one of two online postings yesterday. “Meanwhile, in our own district at home, we cannot find baby formula,” she added, holding a photo of empty shelves where the formula would be.
Cammack said that a border agent sent her photographs of the deliveries, and she posted one online.
“They’re receiving pallets and more pallets of baby formula at the border,” she said holding one of the photos showing both Advantage brand formula and squeeze apple sauce. “This was taken at Ursula processing facility [in McAllen, Texas] where thousands are being housed and processed and then released,” said Cammack.
She said the agent told her, “‘Kat, you would not believe the shipment I just brought in.’ He has been a border patrol agent for 30 years and he has never seen anything quite like this. He is a grandfather and he is saying that his own children can't get baby formula.”
The New York Times, for example, reported on the troubles Texas parents are having finding the formula that is being shipped by their homes to the migrant holding centers. In a story headlined, “A Baby Formula Shortage Leaves Desperate Parents Searching for Food,” the Times said, “Some parents are driving hours at a time in search of supplies. Others are watering down formula or rationing it, hoping for an end to the shortage.”
Cammack was not critical of migrants receiving the formula but said the administration should put American parents first.
“I don't know about you, but if I am a mother, anywhere anytime in America, and I go to my local Walmart or Target or Publix or Safeway or Kroger or wherever it may be that you shop and you are seeing their shelves and you are seeing signs that you are not able to get baby formula. And then you see the American government sending by the pallet thousands and thousands of containers of baby formula to the border, that would make my blood boil," she said.
She added, “it is not the childrens’ fault at all. But what is infuriating to me is that this is another example of the America last agenda that the Biden administration continues to perpetuate.”
Illegal migrants first to get ‘pallets’ of hard-to-find baby formula
The nationwide shortage of baby formula that has sent mothers desperately rushing from store to store has evaded one lucky group: illegal immigrants detained by Border Patrol.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The nationwide shortage of baby formula that has sent moms desperately rushing from store to store has evaded one lucky group: illegal immigrants detained by the border patrol.
According to videos posted by a Florida lawmaker, the Biden administration has been shipping “pallets” of baby formula to migrant holding facilities.
“They are sending pallets, pallets of baby formula to the border,” said Republican Rep. Kat Cammack in one of two online postings yesterday. “Meanwhile, in our own district at home, we cannot find baby formula,” she added, holding a photo of empty shelves where the formula would be.
Cammack said that a border agent sent her photographs of the deliveries, and she posted one online.
“They’re receiving pallets and more pallets of baby formula at the border,” she said holding one of the photos showing both Advantage brand formula and squeeze apple sauce. “This was taken at Ursula processing facility [in McAllen, Texas] where thousands are being housed and processed and then released,” said Cammack.
She said the agent told her, “‘Kat, you would not believe the shipment I just brought in.’ He has been a border patrol agent for 30 years and he has never seen anything quite like this. He is a grandfather and he is saying that his own children can't get baby formula.”
The shortage was sparked by a manufacturing issue and then a rush on stores. (~my commentary: NOT true! it was already going on with the covid supply chain problems. then biden made it worse. THEN the manufacturing problem that is still at issue as to if it was actually from them or not) The shortage has become one of the issues coloring the concerns about growing inflation and economic troubles under President Joe Biden.
The New York Times, for example, reported on the troubles Texas parents are having finding the formula that is being shipped by their homes to the migrant holding centers. In a story headlined, “A Baby Formula Shortage Leaves Desperate Parents Searching for Food,” the Times said, “Some parents are driving hours at a time in search of supplies. Others are watering down formula or rationing it, hoping for an end to the shortage.”
Cammack was not critical of migrants receiving the formula but said the administration should put American parents first.
“I don't know about you, but if I am a mother, anywhere anytime in America, and I go to my local Walmart or Target or Publix or Safeway or Kroger or wherever it may be that you shop and you are seeing their shelves and you are seeing signs that you are not able to get baby formula. And then you see the American government sending by the pallet thousands and thousands of containers of baby formula to the border, that would make my blood boil," she said.
She added, “it is not the childrens’ fault at all. But what is infuriating to me is that this is another example of the America last agenda that the Biden administration continues to perpetuate.”
thompson
Certa Bonum Certamen
Quite a leap of 'logic'.
hunybee
Veteran Member
Melodi
Disaster Cat
In reality, if they want to avoid lawsuits (that they will lose) if the formula is intended for babies that are locked up in immigration facilities with or without a parent then the shipments make sense. That's because legally if they hold em, they kind of kind of have to "own" them until they are moved or processed.
That said, it is a terrible optic and the same sort of pallets should be streaming to major distribution centers all over the US even if the administration has to use the National Defense or other act to declare a REAL national emergency to do so.
As it is, even though I understand what may be going on here, the optics are terrible.
That said, it is a terrible optic and the same sort of pallets should be streaming to major distribution centers all over the US even if the administration has to use the National Defense or other act to declare a REAL national emergency to do so.
As it is, even though I understand what may be going on here, the optics are terrible.
hunybee
Veteran Member
i understand it also.....to a point.
the quiet part that no one wants to say out loud is that they should not be there in the first place, and they won't be there for long either. they will be release fairly quickly into the usa with no real tracking or ability to send them back once they are released. there was a mechanism in place already, when the current occupier of the white house took up residence there, that not only was massively cutting down on the illegal immigration, but it also kept a good portion of them on the mexico side of the border as they awaited their turn. part of the mechanism was to also heavily discourage them from even trying to make the long journey and/or illegally cross over the border in the first place.
the current administration has done everything to make this problem that they now have to solve at the expense of the american citizens, and the american citizens get to pay for it as well.
they get to have real shortages for themselves and their children, and IF they can find it, they are limited and the cost is through the roof....and they also get to pay for the food that IS available to be bought and shipped down to the illegal aliens that are at the border.
that is what she means by "this is what america last looks like".
you are very correct. the optics on this are really, really bad.
coalcracker
Veteran Member
Prior to this current supply crisis, the cost for a #10 sized can of baby formula (which will last about 6 days) was $36 - $50. That’s a lot of dinero.
One also must wonder if our babies, who are fortunate enough to survive their mother’s pregnancy without being killed in the womb via abortion or vaccine, will survive the food costs and shortages?
This story should be all over the news, but we know how that goes.
One also must wonder if our babies, who are fortunate enough to survive their mother’s pregnancy without being killed in the womb via abortion or vaccine, will survive the food costs and shortages?
This story should be all over the news, but we know how that goes.