Wal-Mart pulls formula after baby death

By the CNN Wire Staff

December 22, 2011 -- Updated 0631 GMT (1431 HKT)

Wal-Mart has pulled a batch of Enfamil baby formula from its stores following the death of a boy in Missouri.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• The baby formula was purchased from a Wal-Mart in Lebanon in Missouri
• Tests are in progress to determine if the death came from the formula or any other factors
• "We are highly confident in the safety and quality of our products," formula maker says

Read more about this story from CNN affiliate KYTV.

(CNN) -- Wal-Mart says it has recalled a quantity of infant formula this week after a baby died in Missouri.

"We extend our deepest condolences to this baby boy's family as they try to come to grips with their loss," said Dianna Gee, a Wal-Mart spokeswoman. " As soon as we heard what happened, we immediately reached out to the manufacturer of the formula and to the Department of Health and Senior Services to provide any information we may have to help with the investigation."

Wal-Mart said it is pulled a batch of Enfamil from its stores nationwide that matched the size and lot number of the formula that may have sickened the baby in Missouri, Gee said.

That lot number is ZP1K7G. The baby formula was purchased from a Wal-Mart in Lebanon, Missouri. After the purchase, a 10-day-old infant died from a rare bacterial infection, CNN affiliate KYTV reported.

Authorities are running tests to determine if the death came from the formula, the water to make the formula or any other factor, said Mead Johnson Nutrition, the company that makes Enfamil.

"We are highly confident in the safety and quality of our products -- and the rigorous testing we put them through," said Chris Perille, a Mead Johnson Nutrition spokesman.