Recall inquiries about bugs in Similac baby formula overwhelm company’s website, call center

The baby formula recall is taking its toll -- online.

Abbott Nutrition announced Wednesday that it was recalling certain types and lots of powdered
formula under the Similac brand because beetles were found in one of its
production areas. The Illinois-based company said there’s no health risk related
to the bug scare, but anxious parents overwhelmed the call center and
crashed the website before the company shored up communication problems
Thursday, according to media reports.

The recall affects products marketed in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and some
Caribbean countries. For details, read Abbott’s voluntary recall notice and the Food and Drug Administration’s posting of the recall. You can search the company’s list of
recalled products by lot number online or call [(800) 986-8850] to find out
whether you have formula affected by the recall.

But what’s in baby formula anyway?

MayoClinic.com reports on different types of formulas -- cow’s milk, soy-based
and protein hydrolysate (for babies whose families have a history of milk or soy allergies) -- and how to select one for your child. Read more at “Infant
Formula: Which Formula Is Right for Your Baby?”

The FDA offers a tutorial on some of what’s in formulas and how to prepare
them properly. Read more at “FDA 101: Infant Formula.”

-- Mary Forgione / Los Angeles Times