A precautionary global recall of several infant nutrition products is underway following the detection of cereulide, a toxin produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus. The recalls, initiated in December 2025 and continuing into January 2026, affect products sold in Europe, and internationally.
What is Cereulide and Why is it a Concern?
Cereulide is a toxin that can cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms typically appear 30 minutes to six hours after consuming a product containing the toxin. While the possible negative health effects are considered low to moderate, infants under six months, particularly neonates, are at a higher risk of severe complications such as dehydration and imbalances in the body’s salt levels.
Which Products are Affected?
The recall impacts various batches, products, and brands of infant nutrition products. Major dairy companies including Nestlé, Danone, and Lactalis have issued precautionary recalls. Nestlé initiated recalls in dozens of countries earlier this month. Lactalis has recalled batches in 18 countries, and Danone recalled products in Singapore. The recalls stem from the detection of cereulide in ingredients sourced from a common supplier, potentially affecting infant milk producers globally.
What Triggered the Recall?
The initial concerns arose with the detection of cereulide in infant formula. A judicial inquiry in France is currently investigating a potential link between Nestle milk and the death of a baby, with results expected within approximately ten days. In Singapore, the presence of cereulide was detected in a batch of Danone’s Dumex Dulac 1 and Nestle’s NAN HA1 SupremePro, prompting their recall. A case was reported where an infant who consumed formula from a recalled batch tested positive for the toxin and experienced vomiting and diarrhea, but recovered favorably.
What are Companies Doing?
Nestlé, Danone, and Lactalis have all taken steps to recall and block batches of potentially contaminated infant milk formula. Nestlé has stated they are working closely with authorities in impacted countries to remove affected products. Lactalis indicated that its nutrition unit is responding to the presence of cereulide in an ingredient from a supplier. All infant milk producers in France and internationally are likely to have been affected by deliveries of non-compliant raw materials from the same manufacturer.
What are the Symptoms of Cereulide Exposure?
Symptoms of cereulide exposure include sudden nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. In younger infants, the toxin can disrupt the body’s salt balance, potentially leading to dehydration. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has reported receiving reports of diarrhea in infants following consumption of the recalled products. National investigations are ongoing, and as of , no severe cases related to this event have been reported.
What Should Parents Do?
While the likelihood of further exposure is decreasing as products are withdrawn and recalled, parents and caregivers are advised to be vigilant. Nestlé has reassured parents and families that they have taken necessary steps in impacted countries. Consumers should check for recall notices related to infant formula products and follow the instructions provided by manufacturers and health authorities.
What is Being Done to Prevent Future Contamination?
The current situation has prompted calls for tighter safety checks in the production of infant formula. Experts are demanding more robust measures to prevent contamination with toxins like cereulide. The investigation into the source of the contamination is ongoing, with a focus on the supplier of the affected raw materials. The French farm ministry official noted that the issue appears to stem from a single manufacturer supplying raw materials to multiple producers.
Looking Ahead
The global recall of infant nutrition products highlights the importance of stringent quality control measures in the food industry, particularly when it comes to products intended for vulnerable populations like infants. Continued monitoring and investigation are crucial to understanding the extent of the contamination and preventing similar incidents in the future. Health authorities are continuing to investigate and provide updates as more information becomes available.
