Nestlé issues infant formula advisory information following global recall linked to cereulide risk

Nestlé has issued an infant formula product advisory for consumers in light of its global recall after identifying a potential cereulide toxin risk linked to an ingredient used in some products.

The company issued the recall after detecting a quality issue involving arachidonic acid (ARA) oil supplied by a leading ingredient provider. As a precautionary measure, Nestlé has undertaken testing of all ARA oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of potentially affected infant nutrition products. To date, no illnesses have been linked to the products, with all consumer enquiries under active investigation.

Nestlé said:

We are in contact with authorities in the relevant countries to ensure the necessary steps are taken. Nestlé assures parents and caregivers that it is implementing appropriate actions to help ensure the health and wellbeing of families and their babies.”

The recall affects multiple countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Oceania and Africa, although the specific brands and products impacted differ by market. Market-specific recall information is available on local Nestlé and product brand websites in line with local food safety requirements.

ARA oil is used in a range of infant nutrition products sold globally, which the company said explains the breadth of brands and product lines affected. Nestlé added that it is also working to minimise any potential supply disruption while maintaining its focus on safety.

Cereulide risk and consumer guidance

Cereulide is a toxin of bacterial origin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus and can cause foodborne illness. Nestlé said the presence of cereulide in oils is very uncommon and confirmed it is working with the oil supplier, which is conducting a full root-cause analysis.

Nestlé has outlined symptoms for parents and caregivers to be aware of. “The primary symptom to look out for is severe vomiting which would typically occur between 30 minutes to 6 hours after any exposure,” the company said, adding that secondary symptoms may include diarrhoea and unusual lethargy.

The business stressed that if no symptoms are displayed, there is no cause for concern regarding any health impact. However, it instructed parents and caregivers to discontinue use of affected products in accordance with the recall notice, where applicable in their market, regardless of whether symptoms are present.

Consumers should consult a paediatrician or healthcare provider if concerned about a child’s health or nutrition and check batch numbers on product packaging and relevant local brand websites.

Addressing wider quality concerns, the company said the actions taken relate to a specific number of products and a non-compliant ingredient, rather than systemic issues with its quality protocols.

They added:

The safety and wellbeing of infants remain our top priority.”

Further market-specific recall details, including affected countries, products and refund instructions, are available on Nestlé’s website.