Nestlé Recalls Infant Formula Products Over Toxin Concerns

Nestlé has announced a recall of select infant formula products due to concerns regarding the potential presence of a toxin, specifically from arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, which is used in various infant nutrition items sold globally. The recall affects multiple products across different countries, with specific brands and formulations varying by region.

In Hong Kong, a voluntary recall notice was issued on January 6, 2024, affecting products under the Nestlé NAN and Wyeth brands. Notably, six Nestlé NAN products are part of this action, including NAN PRO 3 BL 2 HMO (800g), NAN Infinipro 7HMO (800g), and the 350g version of NAN Infinipro1 7HMO. These items have expiration dates ranging from July to November 2025. In New Zealand, health authorities, including Food Safety and the Ministry of Health, released an advisory regarding the recall of Nestlé’s specialist infant formula, Alfamino.

The recall extends to 12 additional SKUs from the Nestlé Wyeth range, which includes S-26 ULTIMA 2 (800g) and several ILLUMA products. These products are sold in Hong Kong and through cross-border e-commerce platforms. In New Zealand, Alfamino products are primarily prescribed and available through hospitals and pharmacies, with some being sold over the counter.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled products, according to Nestlé and New Zealand Food Safety. Symptoms to monitor for include severe vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy, which can appear between 30 minutes and six hours after potential exposure.

Investigations Underway

Nestlé has initiated testing on all ARA oil and associated oil mixes used in the production of the affected infant nutrition products. The company emphasized that the presence of cereulide, the toxin in question, in oils is “very uncommon.” Cereulide is produced by certain strains of the microorganism Bacillus cereus, which can cause foodborne illness.

The company stated that it became aware of the potential quality issue through its supplier. In a formal advisory, Nestlé confirmed, “Following the detection of a quality issue with an ingredient provided by a leading supplier, Nestlé has undertaken testing of all ARA oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of its potentially affected infant nutrition products.”

Nestlé is coordinating with authorities in the affected regions to ensure proper measures are taken. As of January 7, 2024, product recalls have also been issued in 27 markets across Europe and three in the Americas.

Minimal Financial Impact Expected

Nestlé reported that the affected batches represent less than 0.5% of its annual group sales. The company anticipates that the financial repercussions of the recall will not be significant. As it navigates this situation, Nestlé remains committed to consumer safety and maintaining transparency throughout the recall process.