Toxins in children's food: widespread recall of Nestlé products
Nestlé has announced a global recall of several batches of BEBA infant formula after discovering a toxic substance, with Austria being one of the affected countries. The decision came after safety tests conducted by AGES (Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety GmbH).
The Austrian Ministry of Health reported that small amounts of cereulide toxin were found in two batches of products. The contamination was attributed to a malfunction in the cleaning processes at one of the production plants of a Nestlé supplier, confirming that all affected products have already been withdrawn from the markets.
Nestlé confirmed in an official statement that the safety and health of infants is a top priority for the company, noting that no cases of illness or health symptoms related to the consumption of the affected products have been reported so far. The Ministry of Health also confirmed that there are no known cases of infection in Austria.
Cereulide is a heat-resistant toxin produced by the bacteria Bacillus cereus, and its consumption can lead to nausea and vomiting. In very rare cases and at high concentrations, it can cause serious health complications. Authorities have clarified that the detected concentration of the toxin was extremely low and does not pose a health risk.
Nestlé had carried out an unannounced recall during the Christmas holiday in coordination with Austrian and international authorities, before officially announcing the recall. While more than 800 products from over ten Nestlé factories were examined, the company clarified that only 32 batches were recalled in Austria as a precautionary measure. Consumers can return the affected products and receive a full refund even without presenting a purchase receipt. The following products are affected: