Abbott expects to begin shipping EleCare infant formula next week
Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT) said Friday it expects to launch EleCare formula next week from its recently reopened Sturgis plant, which has been at the center of the infant formula shortage in the US.
The company closed the plant in February and recalled infant formula, including Similac and EleCare, after reports of bacterial infections in infants who consumed products made at the plant.
Abbott briefly reopened the plant early last month, but was forced to close it about two weeks later due to storms and heavy rains.
The company is initially producing EleCare and is working to restart Similac production.
EleCare formula is for children and infants who cannot tolerate intact protein or have protein allergies.
Abbott also said it has extended discounts on its products through September 30 in states where the company holds the contract in the event Similac is unavailable.