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In the UK, thirty-six infants have reportedly experienced suspected food poisoning linked to contaminated baby formula. This follows the recall of certain batches manufactured by Nestlé and Danone due to the presence of the toxin cereulide. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has received clinical reports indicating that some young children have developed symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, which are consistent with cereulide poisoning.
Although all the affected babies are around or under one year old, none are believed to be seriously ill at this time. Gauri Godbole from UKHSA explained that cases were somewhat anticipated due to the “widespread availability” of the tainted products before the recall and subsequent testing took place. She reassured that, so far, there are no indications of a large-scale problem. “Current surveillance indicators do not show unusual increases in reports of vomiting in children under the age of one for this time of year,” Godbole added. Nevertheless, the agency continues to monitor the situation closely and plans to provide updates as needed.
The agency has been unable to conclusively confirm poisoning in these infants but has verified that they consumed the specific brands involved in the recall. The Danone batch identified is the 800g pack coded EXP 31-10-2026. Nestlé’s recalled products include several batches of SMA infant formula and follow-on formula. Details of the affected Nestlé batches are available on the company’s website, and the issue is not limited to the UK alone. Cereulide is a heat-stable toxin, meaning it is unlikely to be destroyed during cooking or preparation of the formula. Once ingested, it can rapidly cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has linked the contamination to arachidonic acid oil, an ingredient added to infant formula for its growth-enhancing properties similar to those found in breast milk. The FSA has advised parents to cease using any remaining affected products immediately and switch to alternative formulas. Parents worried about symptoms in their babies are encouraged to seek advice from their GP or NHS 111. The FSA is working alongside manufacturers to track all products that might contain the contaminated ingredient and ensure they are removed from the market. Rebecca Sudworth, director of policy at the FSA, emphasized the ongoing investigation: “Along with international partners as part of this global recall, we are investigating the supply chain. We need to know from manufacturers what went wrong and get assurances from the companies involved that it won’t happen again. The FSA will not hesitate to take further action if required.
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