Nestlé has initiated a recall of certain batches of baby formula primarily in Europe due to potential contamination with a toxin capable of causing nausea and vomiting. However, this recall does not impact any products in Canada, as confirmed by the company.
The voluntary recall includes batches of SMA, BEBA, and NAN infant formulas as a precautionary measure due to concerns about the presence of a toxin known as cereulide in these batches. Cereulide is a toxin produced by specific bacteria strains that can lead to food poisoning, resulting in severe vomiting and nausea lasting up to 24 hours, according to information from Ireland’s food inspection agency, one of the regions affected by the recall. The agency also warned that cereulide could be pre-formed in food and is highly heat resistant.
In a recall notice on its website, Nestlé stated, “The safety and well-being of babies is our absolute priority.” The company emphasized that the voluntary recall aligns with its stringent product quality and safety protocols.
After detecting a quality issue in an ingredient from a supplier, Nestlé conducted tests on their products. Subsequently, Nestlé confirmed that alternative suppliers are now being utilized to increase production and ensure a consistent supply of formula.
Nestlé clarified that as of late Monday, no illnesses linked to the recalled products had been reported. The recall affects several countries, including Turkey, Argentina, the U.K., Ireland, and other European nations, while affirming that Canadian products remain unaffected.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) also verified that there is no distribution of the affected formulas in Canada. The CFIA spokesperson mentioned that if any new information arises or if affected products are found in the Canadian market, the agency will promptly inform the public through the Recalls and Safety Alerts website.
Nestlé has listed the affected batch numbers online, with consumers advised to check the bottom of the formula tins or boxes for the batch codes. The company recommends that consumers who have purchased the affected formulas refrain from using them and contact Nestlé for a refund.
Austria’s health ministry reported that the recall impacted over 800 products from more than 10 Nestlé factories, marking the largest recall in the company’s history. These numbers are yet to be officially confirmed by Nestlé.
Nestlé, a Swiss multinational corporation, holds nearly a quarter of the $92.2 billion global infant nutrition market, according to SkyQuest Technology Group, with its shares declining over three percent in the last two trading sessions. While Nestlé does not disclose specific sales data, its Nutrition and Health Science division, which includes infant formula, contributed to 16.6 percent of the company’s total sales of 91.4 billion Swiss francs ($158.4 billion Cdn) in 2024.
This recall, which initially started on a smaller scale in December, adds pressure on Philipp Navratil, Nestlé’s new chief executive, as he aims to drive growth through a comprehensive portfolio review following a period of management changes.