Parents across the UK have been alerted after reports surfaced of children showing signs of toxin poisoning linked to recalled baby formula products.
Health authorities revealed that 36 children have experienced symptoms associated with the cereulide toxin, prompting renewed warnings about certain formulas from Nestlé and Danone.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that notifications came from 24 cases in England, seven in Scotland, three in Wales, one in Northern Ireland, and one from the Crown Dependencies.
All involved children had consumed batches of formula later identified as potentially contaminated.
How the Issue Began: Nestlé Recalls Multiple Formulas
The situation first came to light on January 5 when the Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced that Nestlé was recalling several batches of SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula in the UK as a precaution.
The recall was prompted by fears that the formulas could contain cereulide toxin, which can cause vomiting and abdominal cramps in infants.
Investigations revealed that the source of the contamination was arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, an ingredient added to the formulas.
Both Nestlé and Danone were sourcing ARA oil from the same third-party supplier, which was later linked to the contamination.
Days later, Nestlé expanded the recall to include SMA First Infant Milk 800g packs with a best-before date of December 2027, distributed exclusively in Northern Ireland.
The affected Nestlé products also include SMA Advanced Follow-On Milk, SMA Anti-Reflux, SMA Alfamino, SMA Comfort, SMA Little Steps First Infant Milk, and SMA Lactose-Free formulas.
Danone Joins the Recall
On January 24, Danone followed suit, recalling a batch of Aptamil First Infant Formula (800g) with an expiry date of October 31, 2026, due to cereulide contamination.
Nestlé issued a statement emphasizing their priority: “The safety of our products and the well-being of infants is our top priority.
Upon discovering a quality issue with a supplier’s ingredient, we conducted extensive testing of all ARA oil and related mixes in potentially affected products.
We have worked closely with authorities to recall all impacted items to safeguard families and their babies.”
Danone also assured consumers that it “never compromises on food safety” and clarified that the recall is targeted, mostly affecting specific European batches, with no impact on Irish products.
They emphasized that their infant formula products remain safe for purchase and use.
Understanding the Risk: What Is Cereulide Toxin?
Bacillus cereus, the bacteria responsible for cereulide toxin, can contaminate a variety of foods.
When allowed to grow, certain strains produce the cereulide toxin, which can cause food poisoning.
Symptoms often appear quickly—between 15 minutes and six hours after ingestion—and usually include vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Most cases resolve within 24 hours if there’s no further exposure.
While severe complications are rare, the UKHSA noted a few instances of liver or kidney injury, muscle breakdown, and multi-organ failure, particularly in young children or immunocompromised individuals.
The FSA urges anyone with affected products to stop using them immediately, switch to alternatives, and contact a GP or NHS 111 if the baby has consumed the formula.
If a formula is prescribed, parents should consult a doctor or pharmacist before making a change.
How Parents Can Check for Recalled Products
Parents should carefully check the batch codes and best-before dates on all SMA and Aptamil formulas.
Batch information is printed on the base of powdered tins or the sides of ready-to-feed bottles.
Both Nestlé and Danone have detailed lists of affected products on their websites and on food.gov.uk.
Affected Nestlé products include multiple SMA ranges such as Advanced First Infant Milk, Advanced Follow-On Milk, Anti-Reflux, Alfamino, First Infant Milk, Little Steps, Comfort, and Lactose-Free formulas.
Danone’s recall is limited to a single batch of Aptamil First Infant Formula.
Moving Forward: Safety First
Health authorities and the companies involved are urging parents to remain vigilant and ensure their infants are not exposed to recalled products.
The situation highlights the importance of monitoring food safety closely, particularly for vulnerable populations like babies.
Parents can check official guidance on food.gov.uk or directly on the Nestlé and Danone websites to confirm if their products are affected and follow instructions for safe disposal or returns.
