Nestle recalls SMA and other infant formulas amid contamination concerns

Nestle has recalled several infant and follow-on formulas across multiple European countries after testing flagged a possible contamination in an ingredient; the company says no illnesses have been confirmed and it has published affected batch numbers.

Nestle announced a recall of several infant and follow-on formulas sold across Europe, including products under the SMA, BEBA and NAN brands. The action follows testing of an ingredient, arachidonic acid oil, from a supplier that raised contamination concerns. Britain's Food Standards Agency said the toxin involved, cereulide, can cause rapid nausea and vomiting and is unlikely to be destroyed by boiling; Norway's food safety agency reported no acute health risk. Nestle stated no illnesses linked to the recalled batches have been confirmed and has published affected batch numbers. Key facts: - The recall covers products sold in Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Switzerland and Britain. - A supplier quality issue prompted testing of arachidonic acid oil and related oil mixes; Nestle traced the potential concern to a factory in the Netherlands. - The Food Standards Agency warned cereulide is unlikely to be deactivated by boiling and can cause rapid symptoms; Nestle says no illnesses have been confirmed and has published batch numbers for affected products. Summary: The recall affects a wide range of Nestle infant formulas across several European countries and has led the company to publish affected batch numbers while it tests ingredients. Undetermined at this time.