FDA’s strategy to help prevent Cronobacter sakazakii illnesses associated with the consumption of powdered infant formula

Between September 2021 and February 2022, the FDA received complaints about four cases of illness or death in infants who consumed powdered infant formula from Abbott factory in Michigan. The FDA revealed unsanitary conditions, including the presence of five different strains of Cronobacter sakazakii within the facility. On Feb. 17, 2022, the FDA warned consumers not to use certain products manufactured at this facility. The FDA presented and outlines to prevent Cronobacter sakazakii in infant formula. The plan includes a better understanding of best practices in manufacturing powdered infant formula and what could be done to enhance safety. Establish a dedicated cadre of investigators to conduct infant formula inspections and better support regulatory oversight of infant formula. Evaluate current testing requirements and determine whether improvements might be appropriate to enhance the safety of the finished product. Strengthen the ability of public health officials and firms to identify and investigate illnesses of Cronobacter spp. Support Cronobacter sakazakii as a notifiable disease. Support research to fill knowledge gaps in understanding Cronobacter and broaden scientific knowledge of the organism. @ https://www.fda.gov/food/new-era-smarter-food-safety/outline-fdas-strategy-help-prevent-cronobacter-sakazakii-illnesses-associated-consumption-powdered?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery