Several batches of Nestlé’s BEBA and ALFAMINO infant formula have been recalled as a precaution in Germany.
Nestlé has launched a precautionary recall of several batches of infant formula sold in Germany after traces of a bacterial toxin were detected in one ingredient supplied to the manufacturer.
The recall affects specific batches of BEBA, BEBA expert HA, BEBA expert Comfort+, BEBA supreme, BEBA AR, and ALFAMINO baby formula products that were also available on the German market, according to a statement by Nestlé Germany.
Why were the products recalled?
The recall was initiated after tests detected possible traces of the toxin cereulide in one ingredient used in the affected products, according to Nestlé Germany.
Cereulide is a toxin produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus. While the microorganism is relatively common in the environment, cereulide itself has no place in infant food products, even in extremely small quantities.
Nestlé Germany stated that the concentrations detected in the affected batches were so low that they do not pose a health risk. The recall was issued as a precautionary measure in line with strict food safety standards.
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Are babies in Germany at risk?
According to Nestlé Germany, there is no known health risk to infants from the affected products and no illnesses or symptoms linked to the recalled formula have been reported, either in Germany or internationally.
Despite this, Nestlé Germany said that parents should not feed the affected products to their children. Even minimal traces of cereulide are unacceptable in baby food, which is why the products were removed from sale.
Nestlé Germany confirmed that all affected items have been withdrawn from shops and are no longer available for purchase.
What should parents do if they have the product at home?
Parents who have purchased an affected product should stop using it immediately and return it to the place of purchase. Nestlé Germany said the full purchase price will be refunded even if customers no longer have the receipt.
The company has published a detailed list of affected products – including batch numbers and best-before dates – on its website. The batch number and best-before date can be found on the bottom of the tin or on the folding carton.
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Where can I find official information?
Parents with questions can contact Nestlé Consumer Services in Germany by phone on +49 (0) 800 2344 944.
Additionally, a complete list of the affected products and batches can be found on Germany’s official product warning website.
Nestlé have stressed that no illnesses linked to the products have been confirmed and that all other Nestlé baby food products and unaffected batches remain safe to consume.
With reporting by Tom Pugh.
