Osage Nation Has Recalled Similac Powder Infant Formula

By Craig Day and NewsOn6.com

PAWHUSKA, OKLAHOMA -- The Osage Nation's Women, Infants and Children Program says it is among the list of distributors in possession of the recently-recalled Similac-brand, powder infant formulas.

WIC Program Director Renee Harris says in a news release, if an Osage WIC participant has been issued Similac formula with the letters "RB" in the serial number, they will need to bring the formula to any Osage WIC clinic beginning Monday, September 27, 2010 for an exchange.

"Once we learned that some of the formula we had in our distribution offices was on the recall list, we immediately knew we had to make people aware to ensure their safety," Renee Harris said. "The last thing we want is for our children to be negatively affected by this recall."

The recall has parents across the country concerned.

"It made me nauseous, like seriously made me nauseous," said Angela Mitchell, who is a mom.

Three days ago, Mitchell was making a bottle for her four and a half month old son when she says she spotted something black floating on top.

"I go to get it out and it's an actual bug piece. It's an insect piece," said Mitchell.

The container of formula is one of five million recently recalled. The maker, Abbot Laboratories, voluntarily yanked the product after beetles were found in some cans. 

When news of the recall spread, The Osage Nation in Pawhuska checked the supply in its WIC program. Turns out, their formula is part of the recall. 

Bugs haven't been found in any of their supply, but the Osage Nation doesn't want to take chances, and is working to spread the word about the recall.

"We pride ourselves in taking care of our children in many different areas," said Assistant Principal Chief Scott BigHorse, Osage Nation.

9/23/2010 Related story: Company Recalls Millions of Containers of Similac Infant Formula

Parents and guardians should visit www.similac.com/recall, and type in their lot number to determine if their product is affected. You can also call 1-800-986-8850.

The Osage Nation has WIC clinics in Skiatook, Tulsa, Ponca City, Fairfax, Hominy, Newkirk and Bartlesville.