Wyeth recalls baby formula

Wyeth Philippines Inc. yesterday ordered a voluntary recall of its unexpired formula milk cans manufactured on or before Oct. 31, 2006 because they may have been contaminated when typhoon “Milenyo” damaged its warehouse in Canlubang, Laguna last year.

“The voluntary recall relates only to unexpired formula milk cans manufactured prior to and including Oct. 31, 2006. Boxes (sachets) are not subject to this recall,” Wyeth said in a statement.

The pull-out, blamed on Milenyo which devastated parts of Luzon in September last year, covers “only (the) products distributed in the Philippines.”

“Following the report of rust and mold on the surface of some cans, Wyeth launched a thorough investigation to identify the source of the problem,” the company said.

Wyeth then “concluded that typhoon Milenyo’s damage to its warehouse, accompanied by unusual high humidity levels, resulted in the cardboard packing material (corrugated shippers) absorbing additional moisture. As a result of these conditions, rust and mold developed on the outside of some cans.”

“We believe these conditions are the root cause of this incidence of rust and mold on cans of formula milk,” said Wyeth medical director Dr. Nerissa Calimon.

Calimon maintained that the recall was made “as the presence of rust and mold on the outside of the cans does not meet with Wyeth’s high standards.”

“It is a precautionary measure and we have fully informed the Bureau of Food and Drugs of our intentions,” she added.

The company urges parents to check the bottom of any cans that they might have in their possession for the date of manufacture and expiry.

If such products have been manufactured on or before Oct. 31, 2006 and have not expired, Wyeth said, they can be brought to any Wyeth authorized distributor or retailer for replacement.