The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a critical safety alert, confirming the detection of a harmful toxin in specific Nestlé SMA baby formula products. This development follows earlier recalls initiated by the Swiss food giant due to potential health risks associated with the contamination.
Identification of Contaminant and Health Risks
Investigations by the FSA have pinpointed the problematic substance as cereulide, a toxin known to induce symptoms of food poisoning such as nausea and vomiting. The agency has identified that the source of this contamination is arachidonic acid oil, a vital nutritional component added to infant formula to support healthy development in non-breastfed babies.
Jodie Wild, head of the incidents unit at the FSA, emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating: "Both recalls are due to the presence of cereulide, a toxin that can cause vomiting and nausea. If further recalls are needed, we will announce them immediately."
Scope of Affected Products
The Nestlé products impacted by this contamination include a comprehensive range of SMA infant formulas. Specifically affected are:
- SMA Advanced First Infant Milk
- SMA Advanced Follow-On Milk
- SMA Anti Reflux
- SMA Alfamino
- SMA First Infant Milk
- SMA Little Steps First Infant Milk
- SMA Comfort
- SMA Lactose Free
Supplier Link to Danone Recall
The FSA's ongoing investigation has revealed that the contaminated oil originated from an ingredient supplier utilised by both Nestlé and its competitor, Danone. This connection explains why Danone has also initiated a recall of specific batches of its Aptamil baby formula, citing identical contamination concerns.
"We are urgently tracing all products that may have used ingredients from this supplier to make sure any affected products are removed from sale," Wild added, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the safety response.
Immediate Actions for Consumers
The FSA has issued clear guidance for parents and caregivers who may have purchased the recalled products. Consumers are strongly advised to:
- Immediately cease using any of the affected SMA or Aptamil formulas
- Switch to an alternative, uncontaminated infant formula
- Contact their GP or NHS 111 if their baby has already consumed any of the recalled products
To identify affected batches, customers should check for specific codes on product packaging. For powdered formulas, the code appears on the base of the tin or box, while ready-to-feed formulas display codes on the base of the outer box and on the side or top of the container.
Company Responses and Recall Details
Nestlé has defended its handling of the situation, stating that it "moved quickly and decisively" by voluntarily issuing a recall notice on 5th January. The company maintains that "there has been no change to the scope or nature of this recall" and has apologised for the inconvenience caused to consumers.
Meanwhile, Danone has confirmed that only one specific batch of Aptamil is affected: the 800g pack of First Infant Formula with the expiration code EXP 31-10-2026. The company has established a dedicated careline for concerned parents seeking additional information or support regarding the recall.
The FSA continues to monitor the situation closely, working with both companies to ensure all potentially contaminated products are removed from the market. Parents are encouraged to visit the official Nestlé website or food.gov.uk for the most current information regarding batch numbers and recall procedures.
