Nestlé has extended a recall of certain batches of infant-formula products because of a quality issue with an oil ingredient.
The world’s largest food manufacturer first put out a recall notice in December for specific batches of its Nan stage 1 formula in Europe as a precautionary measure following the detection of the Bacillus cereus bacteria.
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Then on Monday (5 January) a new precautionary recall was put out for its SMA infant formula and follow-on formula because they may contain the toxin cereulide.
Cereulide is produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus. The toxin can cause vomiting and abdominal cramps, according to the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FDA).
Nestlé confirmed that the recall has now been applied globally, explaining the issue revolves around arachidonic acid, an Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid.
“Following the detection of a quality issue with an ingredient provided by a leading supplier, Nestlé has undertaken testing of all arachidonic acid (ARA) oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of its potentially impacted infant-nutrition products,” Nestlé explained in a statement sent to Just Food.
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By GlobalDataThe company added that no illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the products involved and is in contact with authorities in the “relevant countries to ensure the necessary steps are taken”.
Nestlé added that following the December recall it conducted further testing and analysis, which revealed the ARA issue.
“In full alignment with the relevant authorities we took additional measures, which included widening the scope of the recall,” it said.
“The recall of different batches of affected products is taking place in multiple Nestlé markets following a comprehensive traceability exercise. The information is being managed locally with our teams, in close cooperation with authorities.”
Nestlé advised parents in a separate notice yesterday not to feed their babies the specific batches of formula concerned.
The FSA explained that cereulide is “highly heat stable meaning it is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, using boiling water or when making the infant milk”.
Meanwhile, the Migros supermarket chain said in a statement that Nestlé is also recalling various Beba formula products which will affect its stores and online channels in Switzerland due to the possible presence of cereulide.
Commenting further on the extended recall, Nestlé said: “We understand that this news may cause concern for parents, and we sincerely apologise for any concern or inconvenience caused to parents, caregivers, and customers.”
