Due to a recent recall of certain Similac products, the Department of Health is advising the public and businesses that the USDA has given a waiver approving the WIC programs to allow vendors to exchange the authorized supplemental foods obtained WIC vouchers to make exchanges for an identical (exact brand and size) food item.
The products include Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas with the following lot numbers: the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37 and; the code on the container contains K8, SH, or Z2, and the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.
WIC participants will be treated like all other customers during the recall. As regular customers, store policies for returned items may apply. For example, the store may require receipts for return products and ask that the customer bring the recalled item for an equal exchange.
If there are any problems, WIC participants are advised to call their respective WIC clinic and follow the standard WIC procedure.
If vendors have product in stock that has not been recalled, the VI WIC Program has provided guidance on how to exchange recalled products for WIC participants.
The waiver is specific and applies to replacing recalled Similac powdered infant formulas with the same form of uncalled product or another physical form of the same product, which is allowed by the waiver. For example, vendors will be able to replace one can of recalled powder with the equivalent of the formula in the concentrate form.
On Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022, all recalled Similac products were removed from store shelves. WIC participants are reminded the recalled products included: Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas with lot numbers as follows:
• the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37 and
• the code on the container contains K8, SH, or Z2, and
• the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.
The Department of Health advises parents to remain vigilant and monitor their children for signs and symptoms of fever, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, or irritability. If these symptoms arise after drinking the identified formula recall, parents are advised to take the child to their pediatrician, urgent care center, or the emergency room.
More information on the recall is available at FDA Investigation of Cronobacter and Salmonella Complaints: Powdered Infant Formula (February 2022) | FDA
Information on the USDA waiver can be found at:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/supply-chain-Abbot-vendor-exchanges
