Multiple companies, including Nestle and Sanulac Nutritionals Australia, have initiated recalls of specific baby formula batches in various global markets due to the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin that can cause food poisoning symptoms. The recalls are described as precautionary measures, with no confirmed reports of associated illnesses reported as of the announcements.
Global Recalls Initiated
Nestle has commenced a global recall for specific batches of its baby formula products. The recall impacts products sold in several European countries, including France, Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, and Sweden, as well as the UK.
Separately, Sanulac Nutritionals Australia Pty Ltd has recalled specific batches of its Alula baby formula products within Australia.
Affected Products
Nestle's Recall:
Nestle identified specific batches of its SMA infant formula and follow-on formula as potentially unsafe. The recall affects different brands depending on the region:
- France: Specific batches of Guigoz and Nidal infant formulas.
- Germany: Beba and Alfamino products.
- UK: Batch numbers for recalled products are available on Nestle's UK website and through food.gov.uk. Consumers are advised to check the base of the tin or box for powdered formulas, or the base of the outer box and the side or top of the container for ready-to-feed formulas.
Sanulac Nutritionals Australia's Recall:
The recall by Sanulac includes:
- Alula Gold Reflux (900g, 0-12 months): Use by date 17.03.2027, batch number 8000003387.
- Alula Colic & Constipation (850g, 0-12 months): Use by date 17.03.2027, batch number 8000003407.
These products were sold nationally at Coles, Woolworths, pharmacies, and online retailers including Amazon. The Alula Gold Reflux product was also available at independent retailers such as IGA, Big W, and Costco.
No other products or batches from either Nestle or Sanulac are affected by these recalls.
Reason for Recall: Cereulide Toxin
Both companies cited the potential presence of cereulide toxin as the reason for their respective recalls. Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of the Bacillus cereus bacteria.
- Nestle indicated that the problem originated from an ingredient supplied by one of its vendors.
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) stated that the potential presence of cereulide toxin in Alula products is linked to an ingredient used, noting a similarity to a recent international recall involving specialist infant formula products.
Ingestion of cereulide can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to six hours after exposure and generally resolve within 24 hours. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has cautioned that standard preparation methods, including using boiling water, are unlikely to deactivate or destroy this toxin.
Absence of Reported Illnesses
As of the recall announcements, both Nestle and Sanulac Nutritionals Australia confirmed that no reports of illness associated with the consumption of the affected products had been received.
Consumer Advice and Company Response
Consumers in possession of the recalled products are advised not to use them.
- Nestle stated it would provide refunds for affected customers.
- Sanulac Nutritionals Australia advises consumers to return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Both companies emphasized that the recalls are precautionary decisions. Parents, guardians, or caregivers concerned about their infant's health after potential consumption of these products are advised to seek medical advice from healthcare professionals. Regulatory bodies like the FSA and FSANZ have also provided similar guidance.