Camilla Jessen
Nestlé recalls infant formula across 50 countries.
Nestlé has expanded a recall of infant formula and follow-on formula to more than 50 countries after tests identified the possible presence of cereulide.
According to Food Safety News, the recall was first announced in December 2025 after Nestlé detected suspected Bacillus cereus contamination during routine self-monitoring at its factory in Nunspeet, the Netherlands.
Further investigation revealed cereulide in a raw ingredient used in production.
Nestlé said the affected material was arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, along with oil blends containing ARA, which are commonly used in infant nutrition products.
Why cereulide matters
Food safety authorities say cereulide is particularly concerning because it is heat-resistant and can survive normal processing and preparation. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has warned that the toxin may already be present in food before consumption.
Exposure can lead to nausea and severe vomiting, typically within five hours. Symptoms usually last between six and 24 hours, according to regulators.
Nestlé said parents should contact a healthcare provider if a child has consumed a recalled product and shows symptoms.
Products and countries
The expanded recall affects infant formula sold under multiple Nestlé brands and distributed across countries including Australia, China, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sweden and Ukraine.
Brands listed in recall notices include Alfamino, BEBA, NAN, Guigoz and Lactogen.
In the UK and Ireland, certain batches of SMA infant formula and follow-on formula with expiration dates from October 2026 to November 2027 are included.
Parents are advised to check batch numbers and expiration dates against official recall notices in their country and stop using affected products immediately.
Nestlé response
Nestlé said it is working closely with regulators worldwide and monitoring the situation.
“Although no confirmed cases of product-related illness have been identified, we understand that the situation may raise concerns among parents,” the company said.
Sources: Food Safety News, Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Consumer Affairs
