Baby Formulas Tested After Infant’s Death

Federal health officials continue to investigate whether baby formula caused an infant’s death in Missouri.

The 10-week-old baby allegedly consumed Enfamil Premium Newborn, prompting Wal-mart to stop selling 12.5-ounce cans with the lot number ZP1K7G. On Friday, officials at Supervalu Inc., Walgreen Co., Kroger Co. and Safeway followed suit, saying they were also pulling the product from their shelves.

The news came as health regulators said they were widening their investigation into other baby formulas that could be linked to the baby’s sickness, according to a report by Reuters . A Centers For Disease Control official said baby Avery Cornett had consumed several types of formula before his death, although they would not name specific brands.

Preliminary tests indicate Cornett died from a rare infection caused by bacteria known as Cronobacter sakazakii.

The bacteria has been found before in powdered infant formula. The CDC told Reuters that, so far, the bacteria hasn’t been found in the formulas tested.

Cornett’s grandmother told ABC affiliate KSPR that she knew something was very wrong with the baby.

“He started doing this constant moaning,” said Vicky Lerdahl. “He had been sweating through his clothes, but he was cold to the touch.”

While health officials have not said that Enfamil is linked to the child’s death, they’re urging people to get rid of or return 12.5-ounce canisters of Enfamil Premium Newborn powder if the lot number is ZP1K7G. Consumers can call Enfamil at 800-BABY-123 with questions.