An urgent product recall has been issued for a popular infant formula after a specific batch was discovered to contain a dangerous bacterial toxin. Aptamil First Infant Formula is being removed from shelves across the UK following the identification of cereulide contamination, rendering the product unsafe for consumption.
Immediate Health Warning Issued
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has confirmed the recall, highlighting the serious health risks associated with the cereulide toxin. This substance is known to induce vomiting and can withstand high temperatures, meaning it is not destroyed through normal preparation methods like heating or cooking formula.
Consumption of the contaminated formula can lead to a rapid onset of unpleasant symptoms, primarily severe nausea and abdominal cramps. Parents and caregivers are being urged to act immediately to protect infant health.
Affected Batch Details
The recall specifically targets all 800g packs of Aptamil First Infant Formula bearing the batch code 31-10-2026 and a best before date of October 31, 2026. Customers who have purchased these products are strongly advised not to feed them to babies under any circumstances.
Instead, they should return the formula to their point of purchase, with or without a receipt, for a full refund. For infants who rely on medically prescribed formula, it is crucial to consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional before switching to an alternative product to ensure nutritional needs continue to be met safely.
Source of Contamination Traced
The alarming discovery stems from contamination in a key ingredient used in the base powder for infant formula. The problematic component is ARA oil, manufactured in China, which was found to be tainted with cereulide.
This incident has triggered a coordinated international response. Similar recalls have been announced in other countries, including Ireland, following an official notification through the European Commission's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), which facilitates swift cross-border warnings about unsafe food products.
Manufacturer's Response and Assurance
Danone, the company behind the Aptamil brand, has stated that the decision to recall the product was made in response to "evolving guidance" from food safety authorities. The firm has emphasised its commitment to safety, insisting that its products undergo rigorous testing.
In an official statement, Danone declared: "Danone never compromises on food safety. Both our routine controls and additional targeted analyses carried out in light of the current situation in the industry confirm Danone's products are safe and fully compliant with all applicable safety regulations."
The company explained: "In light of this sector situation, some local food safety authorities are evolving their guidance. In that context, as a responsible manufacturer and to comply with the latest guidance, Danone will withdraw from targeted markets a very limited number of specific batches of infant formula products."
Danone concluded by affirming that its top priority remains ensuring that parents and healthcare professionals can maintain their trust in the safety and quality of its infant nutrition products.
This recall underscores the critical importance of robust food safety protocols and transparent communication in the infant formula sector, where consumer confidence is paramount.
