Food and nutrition major Nestlé has announced a global recall of certain infant formula products after identifying a potential contamination risk that could cause food poisoning in babies.
In a statement issued on January 6, the Switzerland-headquartered company said specific batches of its Simulated Milk Adapted (SMA) infant formula and follow-on formula may be unsafe due to the possible presence of cereulide, a toxin that can trigger nausea and vomiting.
Recall spans 31 countries
The recall currently affects products sold in 31 countries, largely across Europe including the UK, France and Germany, along with three countries in Latin America and Hong Kong in Asia. Nestlé clarified that the list of affected markets is not exhaustive and may be expanded as investigations continue.
Brands recalled in different regions include SMA, BEBA and NAN, with the company publishing the relevant batch numbers for consumer reference.
Importantly, India is not part of the recall at this stage.
What caused the contamination?
According to Nestlé, the recall follows the detection of a quality issue in an ingredient supplied by a third-party vendor. While no confirmed illnesses linked to the affected products have been reported so far, the company acted as a precautionary measure.
The suspected contaminant, cereulide, is a toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus, a bacterium commonly found in soil. The toxin is heat-stable, meaning it cannot be destroyed by boiling or reheating.
Nestlé believes the issue may be linked to arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, an ingredient added to infant formula to replicate essential fatty acids found in breast milk. ARA plays a key role in brain development, immunity and bone health in infants.
India products safe, says Nestlé
Responding to concerns, a Nestlé India spokesperson said that none of the affected products or batches are imported or sold in the country.
“All infant formula brands sold in India are manufactured locally. Extensive testing confirms they fully comply with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) norms and regulations,” the spokesperson said.
Nestlé India markets products such as NAN Pro and Lactogen Pro for infants and toddlers.
Health experts urge caution
Paediatric experts warn that cereulide exposure in infants can cause sudden vomiting, poor feeding, lethargy and dehydration, and in rare cases, liver complications.
Doctors advise parents to follow strict hygiene, store formula correctly and use it immediately after preparation, even in countries where no recall has been announced.