This move arises amid a broader global crisis affecting Swiss firm Nestle. Their SMA brand has been compelled to conduct multiple global recalls due to the detection of a hazardous toxin in its baby formula products.
The outbreak originated from a Chinese supplier of arachidonic acid (ARA) oil, which is a crucial ingredient in baby formulas developed to support brain and nervous system development.
The cereulide toxin, produced by the Bacillus cereus bacteria, can lead to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea upon ingestion.
Currently, this toxin is suspected of contributing to two infant fatalities in France. Additionally, it has drawn in Lactalis, another company that has also initiated recalls of its baby formula products in response to the situation.
This recent recall from Danone extends its earlier alert regarding Aptamil First Infant Formula issued on January 23.
Now, Danone has implemented a recall for batches of Aptamil First Infant Milk, Aptamil Follow On Milk, Cow & Gate First Infant Milk, and Cow & Gate Anti-Reflux.
All affected batches can be found on the Food Standards Agency (FSA) website. Consumers can return these products for a full refund, with or without a receipt, and they must not be consumed.
A statement from the FSA read: “Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus.”
“Cereulide is highly heat stable, meaning it is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, or when making the infant milk according to NHS guidelines. If consumed, it can lead to rapid onset of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.”
“Danone is recalling the above products. Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that sell these items, detailing to customers why the products are being recalled and how to proceed if they have purchased them. Please see the attached notice.”
