STURGIS, MI - The Abbott Laboratories plant in Sturgis is under a criminal investigation by the Department of Justice.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the investigation is in relation to Abbott’s recall of baby formula in 2022.

In February of 2022, the Sturgis plant shut down after an inspection by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of the facility discovered Cronobacter Sakazakii Bacteria in several areas of the plant. This bacteria can be deadly to infants.

Abbott recalled Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formulas that were made at the Sturgis plant. The facility finally re-opened in June and started producing EleCare. However, during the shut down, a shortage of baby formula was evident around the United States and the world.

Attorneys with the Justice Department’s consumer protection division are leading the criminal investigation. An Abbott spokesperson says they have been informed by the Department of Justice that the investigation is happening, and the company is cooperating fully.