A global recall of infant formula has sent shockwaves through parents and health authorities after Nestlé warned that certain products may contain a dangerous toxin linked to food poisoning.
Nestlé has announced a worldwide recall of selected batches of its infant formula after identifying a potential contamination risk that could cause food poisoning in babies. The company confirmed that the affected products are not safe for infant consumption and were withdrawn as a precautionary public health measure.
According to Nestlé, the recalled batches may contain a toxin known as cereulide, which is produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus. Exposure to this toxin can trigger symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps. Health experts warn that cereulide is particularly dangerous because it cannot be destroyed by cooking, boiling water, or standard milk processing methods.
The British Food Standards Agency has supported the recall, emphasizing that the toxin remains active even after heat treatment. The affected products include specific batches of SMA infant formula and follow-on formula, Guigoz and Nidal products sold in France, and Beba and Alfamino formulas distributed in Germany. These products are sold across several European countries including France, Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, and are also available in global markets.
Nestlé stated that no illnesses have been reported so far and stressed that the recall is a preventive action. The issue has been traced to a defect in an ingredient supplied by an external vendor. Customers who purchased the affected formula will receive full refunds.
Parents and caregivers are advised to carefully check the batch numbers printed on the bottom of formula cans or packaging. Jane Rollins of the British Food Standards Agency urged families to seek immediate medical advice if a child shows any signs of illness after consuming the recalled products.
Nestlé has reassured consumers that all other products not included in the recall remain safe to use.
