Nestlé has expanded the recall of certain batches of its infant nutrition products beyond Europe to countries across Africa, the Americas and Asia over concerns they may be contaminated with cereulide, a toxin capable of causing food poisoning.
The recall affects specific batches of SMA, BEBA, NAN and Alfamino infant formulas, which the company said could trigger nausea and vomiting, although no illnesses have been confirmed.
Nestlé said the action was taken “out of an abundance of caution,” stressing that infant safety remains its top priority, as health warnings were issued in at least 37 countries including Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico and South Africa, according to Reuters.
The company said the issue was traced to a quality problem linked to an ingredient supplied by a third party, prompting Nestlé to test all related oil mixes, ramp up production and activate alternative suppliers to maintain supply.
While health authorities in several countries have urged parents not to feed babies with the recalled products, Nigeria has yet to issue any advisory, with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control not responding to enquiries as of the time of filing.
Nestlé apologised to parents and caregivers, promised refunds for affected products and assured consumers that “all other Nestlé products and batches of the same products that have not been recalled are safe to consume,” even as the recall adds pressure on the company amid leadership changes and a reported dip in its share price.