The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has ordered the suspension of the sale of five batches of Nestlé NAN infant formula and follow-on formula as a precautionary measure due to the potential presence of cereulide toxin. The suspension will remain in place while investigations are carried out, as confirmed by the SFA and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA).
This move follows notifications from the European Commission’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed and the International Food Safety Authorities Network about the recall of the affected products.
Affected Batches
The five affected batches, all made in Switzerland, are:
- NAN HA 3 SupremePro, batch 53030017C1
- NAN HA 2 SupremePro, batch 51420017C4
- NAN HA 1 SupremePro, batch 51460017C2
- NAN HA 1 SupremePro, batch 51470017C1
- NAN HA 3 SupremePro, batch 53030017B1
What is Cereulide Toxin?
Cereulide is a toxin that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhoea. These symptoms typically appear between 30 minutes to six hours after consuming contaminated food, and usually resolve within 24 hours. However, vulnerable groups like infants are at higher risk of complications.
Investigations and Health Warnings
While no confirmed cases of illness related to the consumption of the affected Nestlé infant formula have been reported in Singapore so far, investigations are ongoing. The SFA and CDA have noted that there are no established international standards for the acceptable level of cereulide toxin in infant formula and other foods.
The CDA is working closely with hospitals to monitor for potential cases of cereulide poisoning in children. Parents are advised to avoid feeding the affected products to their children and to seek medical advice promptly if their child feels unwell after consumption.
Nestlé’s Response
A Nestlé Singapore spokesperson clarified that no stocks of the affected batches have been recalled in Singapore. After conducting a thorough check, Nestlé identified two batches that required further review. However, subsequent lab testing confirmed that these batches were safe for consumption. The spokesperson also confirmed that all other products sold by Nestlé Singapore are safe and that the company is working closely with the SFA to ensure full transparency on the matter.
Global Impact and Recall
Nestlé initially recalled the affected batches in Europe, but the recall has now been expanded to include markets across Africa, the Americas, and Asia. Health warnings have been issued in at least 37 countries, including many European states, as well as Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico, and South Africa. No illnesses have been confirmed in relation to the affected batches so far.
Nestlé has also taken action to address a quality issue detected in an ingredient from one of its leading suppliers. The company is ramping up production and activating alternative suppliers to maintain supply of its infant nutrition products.
