Nestle recalls infant formula batches globally over toxin risk; company says Indian products unaffected

Nestle has recalled batches of its ​key infant nutrition products, including SMA, BEBA and NAN infant and follow-on formulas in dozens of countries across Europe, Africa, the Americas and Asia due to potential contamination with a toxin that could cause nausea and vomiting.

The product recall, which began on a smaller scale in December, is another challenge for new Nestle CEO Philipp Navratil, who is trying to kickstart growth with a portfolio review after a period of management turmoil.

The ​company said late ⁠on Monday (January 5, 2025) that no illnesses or symptoms have been confirmed that were tied to any of the recalled products.

After a quality issue was detected in an ingredient from a leading supplier, “Nestle ​has undertaken testing of all arachidonic ⁠acid oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of its potentially impacted infant nutrition products,” a company spokesperson said.

At least 37 countries, including most European states, as well ​as Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico and South Africa have issued ⁠health warnings over the infant formulas possibly being contaminated.

On Wednesday, the United ​Arab Emirates’ drug regulator also recalled certain ​Nestle infant formula products, the state news agency (WAM) reported.

The Emirates Drug Establishment ⁠said no illness or adverse events linked to the affected ​batches ⁠have been reported or confirmed, WAM added.

The Qatari Ministry of Public Health ‌has also warned consumers against ‌using specific batches of Nestle infant formula ‍products over suspected contamination with cereulide toxin, the ‍Qatari state news agency reported.

Nestle India denies selling recalled or withdrawn baby formula products

Nestle confirmed that it does not import or sell any of their recently globally recalled products in India, as they manufacture everything locally, ANI reported.

“Nestle India does not import or sell any of the affected products or batches that have been withdrawn or recalled. All infant formula brands sold in India are manufactured locally. We have conducted thorough testing on these products and can confirm that they meet all FSSAI and applicable rules and regulations,” the company told ANI.

Nestle India has further stated that recalls have been initiated as a precautionary measure, but no illnesses have been reported so far.

“At Nestle India, the safety and well-being of our consumers is our top priority. All our products are in full compliance with FSSAI and applicable rules and regulations. Following the detection of a quality issue with an ingredient provided by a leading supplier, Nestle has initiated a precautionary recall/withdrawal in some countries for certain infant formula product batches produced in Europe. No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the products involved to date,” they clarified.