Swiss-based Nestlé announced on the 6th that it has issued a recall notice for certain batches of infant formula products in 31 countries and regions worldwide.
In a statement on its official website, Nestlé said the company has conducted tests on all arachidonic acid oil and related oil blends used in the production of potentially affected infant formula products.
Nestlé pointed out that quality issues were found in the oil raw materials provided by a supplier, and that the affected batches of infant formula may contain Bacillus cereus, a bacteria which can cause foodborne illness.
Nestlé stated that since arachidonic acid oil is widely used in various types of infant formula, this recall involves multiple countries and regions, brands, and products.
Nestlé indicated that so far, no cases of illness have been confirmed among consumers who consumed the affected products.
The countries and regions affected by this recall include 27 European countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, as well as Argentina, Mexico, Peru, and Hong Kong.
The UK Food Standards Agency stated in a food safety alert on the 6th that Bacillus cereus is highly heat-resistant, meaning it is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, boiling water, or preparing infant formula. This bacterium may cause food poisoning, with symptoms potentially appearing rapidly, including nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
Austria Recalls Over 800 Products
According to the Austrian Ministry of Health, this recall involves over 800 products from more than a dozen factories under Nestlé, making it the largest product recall in the company's history.
Nevertheless, a Nestlé spokesperson was unable to confirm the relevant data.