Camilla Jessen
Nestle recalls baby formula over toxin concerns.
Parents across the UK and Ireland are being urged to check baby formula products in their homes. A precautionary recall has been launched amid concerns about a potentially harmful toxin.
The warning affects specific batches from a major manufacturer and applies to infant and follow on formula.
Recall details
Nestle has announced a voluntary recall of certain batches of its SMA infant formula and follow on formula. The company warned customers not to feed the affected products to babies due to the possible presence of cereulide.
According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), cereulide is a heat resistant toxin that can trigger nausea, abdominal cramps and vomiting once consumed.
Nestle said there have been no confirmed reports of illness linked to the products but the action was taken “out of an abundance of caution”.
Company response
In its recall notice, Nestle said: “The safety and wellbeing of babies is our absolute priority.”
The company added: “Nestle has decided to perform this voluntary product recall in line with our strict product quality and safety protocols.”
The notice continued: “Customers who may have these batches should not feed this product to their baby.”
Nestle also said: “We understand that this news may cause concern for parents, and we sincerely apologise for any concern or inconvenience caused to parents, caregivers or customers.”
What parents should do
The affected batches were sold in the UK and Ireland, with full batch codes listed on the Nestle and FSA websites. The codes can be found on the base of tins or boxes for powdered formula, and on containers for ready made versions.
Customers who bought the affected products are advised to contact Nestle’s careline to arrange a refund.
“If you have been prescribed one of these batches listed, please destroy the product and speak to your Healthcare Professional for advice on an alternative,” the notice said.
Health advice
Nestle said: “Anyone concerned about their baby’s health should [also] contact a healthcare professional.”
The company stressed that “all other Nestle products and other batches of the same products that are not in the scope of this voluntary recall are safe to consume”.
Sources: Nestle, Food Standards Agency, Express
