Nestle recalls some baby formula products over toxin fears

Archie Mitchellbusiness reporter

Getty Images Baby drinks milk from a bottle

Nestle has announced a global recall of some baby food products due to concerns that they contain a toxin that could cause food poisoning.

The food and beverage giant said certain batches of SMA baby food and follow-on formula were unsafe to feed to babies.

Nestle said the batches were sold worldwide and may contain cerulide, which can cause nausea and vomiting when consumed.

The company said it had no confirmed reports of illness related to the products but was recalling them “out of an abundance of caution.”

“The safety and well-being of babies is our absolute priority,” the company said in a statement. “We sincerely apologize for any concern or inconvenience caused to parents, carers and customers.”

It was emphasized that all other Nestle products that were not recalled and the same product batches were safe to consume.

Nestle promised affected customers a refund and said the problem was caused by an ingredient provided by one of its suppliers.

Batch numbers of affected products In the UK it can be found at: Nestle’s UK websiteor through food.gov.uk.

Customers are encouraged to look for the appropriate code on the bottom of the can or box or outer box for powder formulas and on the side or top of the container for ready-to-feed formulas.

Nestle recalls some batches of SMA baby and follow-on formulas

Nestle products affected by the recall are certain lines of SMA baby food and follow-on formula — Nestle recalls some batches of SMA baby and follow-on formulas

Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus bacteria that can develop rapidly and cause symptoms of food poisoning, which can include vomiting and stomach cramps. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned that the substance is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, using boiling water or making baby milk.

The FSA’s chief events officer, Jane Rawling, said parents, guardians and carers should not feed the affected products to babies or young children.

He added: “I would like to reassure parents, guardians and carers that we are taking immediate action and helping to remove all affected products from sale as a precaution.

“If you have given this product to a baby and have any concerns about its possible health effects you should seek advice from healthcare professionals by contacting your doctor or calling NHS 111.”