Nestlé’s infant formula division is under increased scrutiny due to a recent recall in Brazil involving a specific baby powder brand. The company faces challenges as authorities have flagged iodine and selenium levels exceeding permissible limits in the Alfamino formula.
On February 12, Anvisa, Brazil’s health regulatory body, announced its findings regarding elevated quantities of these nutrients in certain batches. Consequently, the agency mandated the recall of ten batches of the affected products, halting sales, distribution, import, and advertising of the Alfamino line.
Anvisa elaborated on the significance of monitoring iodine and selenium levels, stating, “the limits between an adequate amount and a potentially toxic dose are narrow for infants and young children, so excessive consumption can pose risks.” Excessive iodine can lead to poor weight gain and thyroid dysfunction, while too much selenium may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
These symptoms, related to selenium overdose, echo concerns raised earlier regarding the cereulide toxin—a key factor in an infant formula recall initiated by Nestlé in Europe last December. This issue has since spread globally, with major dairy brands like Lactalis and Danone also recalling their products, a process still ongoing.
Prosecutors in France recently launched investigations into the deaths of two children allegedly linked to the recalled Nestlé formula. Over 20 families have initiated legal actions against the government concerning its handling of the recall. In a statement, France’s Ministry of Health acknowledged three deaths but maintained that “no causal link has been scientifically established” with the recalled products. Regional health agencies have reported about 50 cases potentially linked to the cereulide toxin, including 14 hospitalizations.
In Brazil, while Anvisa did not specify dangerous levels for iodine and selenium, it provided quantified findings: 175.7 micrograms of iodine and 31.1 micrograms of selenium per 100 kcal in the tested Alfamino formula. Additionally, authorities in Europe have recently revised the acceptable threshold for cereulide, establishing a limit of 0.014 micrograms per kilogram of body mass following a rapid risk assessment.
In response to the series of recalls linked to cereulide, Nestlé has reportedly increased production of infant formula in several European countries, including France, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, to mitigate potential shortages.
As of now, the company has not issued a comment regarding the Brazil recall or its European production adjustments.
In light of these events, businesses within the food and beverage industry should remain alert to evolving consumer trends and regulatory challenges, understanding the implications of product safety and quality on brand reputation.
