Nestlé has initiated a voluntary recall of specific batches of its SMA infant formula and follow-on formula after identifying the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin that can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
The food major said late on Monday that the recall was being carried out as a precautionary measure in line with its quality and safety protocols. Britain’s Food Standards Agency (FSA), along with Nestlé, has published a list of affected batch numbers and advised consumers not to use the identified products.
Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of the Bacillus cereus bacterium and is known for its high heat stability. According to the FSA, the toxin is unlikely to be destroyed by cooking, boiling water or during the preparation of infant formula, and consumption can result in the rapid onset of symptoms.
Nestlé said no illnesses or adverse health effects have been reported so far in connection with the recalled products.
“Out of an abundance of caution, Nestlé has decided to perform this voluntary product recall in line with our strict product quality and safety protocols,” the company said in a statement.
The recall covers batches of SMA, BEBA and NAN infant nutrition products sold in several European markets, including Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland and the UK. Nestlé said it had traced the potential risk to one of its factories in the Netherlands and was working to minimize any disruption to supply.
Austria’s health ministry said the recall affected more than 800 products from over 10 Nestlé factories, describing it as the largest product recall in the company’s history. A Nestlé spokesperson, however, said the company could not independently verify those figures.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products have been advised not to use them and to contact Nestlé carelines for refunds or further information.