Baby Deaths Linked to SimplyThick's Infant Formula Additive, FDA Cautions

A product used to help infants with difficulty swallowing could increase their risk of developing a life-threatening illness, the Food and Drug Administration warned Tuesday. The agency says 22 infants developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) after being fed the thickening agent SimplyThick – reportedly as directed. Seven of them died. Necrotizing enterocolitis is a condition where tissue in the intestines gets inflamed and dies. It occurs most often in babies that are ill or born prematurely. The cause is unknown. SimplyThick is mixed with breast milk or infant formula to help babies swallow their food and keep it down without spitting it back up. It's sold in individual packets or 64-ounce bottles that can be bought from local pharmacies or distributors across the country.

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