Nestlé recalls baby formula over food poisoning fears as parents urged to check products

The food giant confirmed that a number of batches of its SMA infant and follow‑on milks are not safe to feed to babies, after tests suggested they may contain the cereulide toxin — a substance that can trigger sudden vomiting, nausea and stomach cramps.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said the recall is precautionary but serious, warning that the toxin can cause symptoms “quick to develop” if consumed.

Nestlé apologised to families and stressed that no illnesses have been reported so far, blaming the issue on a contaminated ingredient supplied by a major manufacturer.

FSA: “Do NOT feed these products to infants”

Jane Rawling, head of incidents at the FSA, urged parents and carers to stop using the affected formulas immediately.

She said:

“Parents, guardians and caregivers should not feed infants or young children with these products. Cereulide is a toxin produced by food poisoning bacteria and can cause vomiting and stomach cramps.”

The FSA said it is working with retailers to ensure all affected stock is removed from sale.

Anyone worried about a child who has consumed the formula is advised to contact their GP or call NHS 111.

Which SMA products are affected?

Nestlé has recalled specific batches of the following SMA formulas:

• SMA Advanced First Infant Milk
• SMA Advanced Follow‑On Milk
• SMA Anti‑Reflux
• SMA Alfamino
• SMA First Infant Milk
• SMA Little Steps First Infant Milk
• SMA Comfort
• SMA Lactose Free

Full batch details are available on food.gov.uk and the Nestlé website.

Nestlé: “No confirmed illnesses – recall is precautionary”

In a statement, Nestlé said the issue was linked to a quality problem with a supplier ingredient and that it had tested all relevant oil mixes used in production.

The company said:

“No illnesses have been confirmed. As a precautionary measure, we are voluntarily recalling specific batches of SMA infant formula and follow‑on formula.”

Nestlé added that it is working to protect families, minimise supply disruption, and keep parents fully informed.