A batch of Nestle baby formula products have been recalled across the Middle East, including in the UAE, as a safety precaution. The recall was initiated after one of the raw materials used in production was found to contain traces of the Bacillus cereus bacteria, which can produce the toxin cereulide that can cause nausea and vomiting. At least 37 countries have issued health warnings over the infant formulas possibly being contaminated.
The Emirates Drug Establishment, the UAE’s medical regulator, stated that a “limited number” of infant formula products were being recalled in co-ordination with Nestle. The affected products include NAN Comfort 1, NAN Optipro 1, NAN Supreme Pro 1, 2, 3, S-26 Ultima 1, 2, 3, and Alfamino. No illness or adverse events linked to the affected batches have been reported, and all other Nestle products remain safe for consumption.
Nestle said it had co-ordinated a voluntary recall of the select baby formula products with authorities in affected countries. The company stated that the recall is a precautionary measure due to the potential presence of cereulide in one of the ingredients from a supplier used in the batches concerned. Relevant customers and distributors holding the identified batches were notified, and standard instructions were issued to block and remove the affected quantities from store shelves.
The recall process is being carried out in partnership with other regulatory authorities in the UAE to ensure the complete removal of the products from all points of sale, including online retail platforms. The affected supplies have been quarantined in Nestle’s and its distributors’ warehouses, and efforts are continuing to complete the recall. The recall is a precautionary measure to protect public health, and Nestle has decided to perform this precautionary product recall in full co-operation with the local authorities in each of the impacted countries.