Key Summary
- Some Nestlé baby formulas are being recalled as a precaution over toxin concerns
- Parents should not use the recalled products and check the official recall list
- If a baby has consumed it and there are worries, contact a GP or NHS 111
Nestle's is recalling some batches of infant nutrition products in Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia, as a precautionary step.
The Swiss food giant said no illnesses have yet been confirmed in connection with the batches of SMA, BEBA, NAN and Alfamino formula that are being recalled because of possible contamination with cereulide, a toxin that can cause nausea and vomiting.
Cereulide is produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus, and it is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, using boiling water or when making the infant milk.
If consumed it can lead to rapid onset of above-mentioned symptoms.
At least 37 countries, including most European states, as well as Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico and South Africa have issued health warnings over the infant formulas possibly being contaminated.
In the UK, pharmacy teams have been urged to review their stock for the following products: SMA Advanced First Infant Milk (800 g), SMA Advanced Follow‑On Milk (800 g), SMA Anti‑Reflux (800 g), SMA Alfamino (400 g), SMA First Infant Milk (400 g, 800 g, 1.2 kg), SMA Little Steps First Infant Milk (800 g), SMA Comfort (800 g), SMA First Infant Milk (ready‑to‑feed 70 ml & 200 ml), and SMA Lactose‑Free (400 g).
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has listed out the batch listings of the recalled products on their website.
Nestle said it would put point of sales notices citing the reasons for recall will be displayed at stores selling these products.
Consumers who may have these batches should not feed this product to their baby, the company said.
The FSA has said the if any consumer has fed this product to a baby and has any concerns about potential health impact, they should approach a GP or call 111.
Nestle has said that it had tested all arachidonic acid oil and corresponding oil mixes used in production of its potentially affected infant nutrition products after a quality issue was detected in an ingredient from a leading supplier.
It is now ramping up production and activating alternative suppliers of the acid oil to maintain supply.
The recall piles more pressure on the KitKat and Nescafe maker and its new CEO, Philipp Navratil, who is seeking to revive growth.
