It's difficult to say if it is safe to use Similac baby formula because not all Similac formulas may work for your child's needs, and you might find yourself switching formulas regularly. Furthermore, some Similac products contain ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, which increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity both in children and adults.
Infant baby formulas are a life-changer for mothers who can't breastfeed. However, many products have unhealthy and even harmful ingredients that might cause long-term or fatal effects. Some common side effects of infant baby formulas include diarrhea, stomach upset, and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious gastrointestinal condition in premature babies.
FDA does Not Regulate Baby Formula Products on the Market
The Infant Formula Act of 1980 establishes specific guidelines, including the quality control procedures and nutrient requirements for every manufactured food or drug. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate any baby formula before entering the market, so seek your pediatricians' opinion before use. You can always ask for expert medical advice to ensure Similac baby formula is safe to use and that your child gets the right nutrient source.
If your child responds negatively to the Similac formula you're using, you can switch to another recipe. Follow your pediatrician's recommendations of sticking to one formula for a few weeks without changing. Your infant's tummy will not have a chance to adjust if you change formulas too often.
What Is Similac Alimentum?
Similac Alimentum is one of the most common specialty formulas that doctors recommend. Its hypoallergenic formula supplies the vitamins and proteins infants need while reducing the risk of an allergic reaction. It's designed for infants who have trouble digesting cow milk-based formula. The formula ensures that infants with milk intolerance, reflux, or allergies get lactose-free cow's milk proteins broken down to make digestion easier.
When you first switch your child's formula to Alimentum and use the standard procedure of combining Alimentum with the formula you're using, it's perfectly safe for your baby. However, stop combining the two once the formula switch is complete because Alimentum breaks down milk proteins while the traditional formula has its proteins intact. The intact proteins lessen Alimentum's benefits when you continuously mix the two.
Alimentum is not sweet and will take some time before your newborn accepts it. You'll have to introduce it gradually if you decide to switch to Alimentum. Switching over means you mix Alimentum formula for a few days. You can take other safety precautions to make Similac generally safe.
Safety Precautions When Using Similac
Safety precautions don't end at the manufacturing level, so it would be best to observe the following safety measures before using any Similac product:
Ensure Proper Storage
Similac's packaging shows users how to properly handle the formula before and after opening the container. It also shows them how to store and dispose of the formula. Read these instructions carefully before use.
Note the Product's Expiration Date
Similac formulas guarantee the date up to which the formula content and quality are suitable for consumption. You should not feed the formula to infants if the date on the packaging has expired.
Warm the Formula
Formula warming isn't necessary unless you prefer bottle-warming. When doing this, place the bottle under warm running water while ensuring the water doesn't get into the bottle or nipple. Avoid using a microwave to heat the formula. It causes the bottle to remain cold while developing hot spots in the formula.
Clean Bottles Properly
Similac recommends appropriately cleaning and sanitizing rings, cups, bottles, and nipples before using the formula. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has various guidelines on cleaning your baby's bottles if you aren't sure what to do.
Ensure the Correct Formula Preparation
Similac recommends using safe-sourced water to mix with powdered infant formula. Follow the instructions on the amount of water and number of scoops on the infant formula label. Discard any formula left after your newborn finishes feeding.
Can You File a Lawsuit Against Similac?
Yes. You can sue the manufacturer of Similac products (Abbott Laboratories) if your child suffers from serious effects such as NEC.
Some of the damages you can claim in your lawsuit include:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical costs
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death
- Missed wages
Call Us for a Free Consultation
If your baby becomes sick after feeding on Similac, you can hand over the daily aspects of your case to our team of personal injury attorneys so you can focus on your infant's rehabilitation and recovery.
At Dolman Law Group, we handle such injury cases on a contingency basis, only collecting attorney's fees after securing a verdict or settlement in our client's favor. We can help you pursue your claim. Call us at (727) 451-6900 or fill out our online contact form now to get started.