Nestle issued a global recall of specific batches of its SMA infant formula and follow-on formula due to potential contamination with cereulide, a toxin that can cause food poisoning. The company announced the recall, stating that while there had been no confirmed reports of illness, the action was taken "out of an abundance of caution."

The affected batches were sold across the world, including in several European countries such as France, Germany, Austria, Denmark, Italy, and Sweden. Nestle confirmed the global scope of the recall to the BBC. The company emphasized that all other Nestle products and unaffected batches of the same products remained safe for consumption.

Cereulide is a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, a bacterium commonly found in the environment. While typically causing mild gastrointestinal issues, cereulide can pose a greater risk to infants due to their underdeveloped immune systems. Symptoms of cereulide poisoning include nausea and vomiting.

Nestle, a multinational food and beverage conglomerate headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, has faced scrutiny in the past regarding its marketing practices of infant formula, particularly in developing countries. Critics have argued that aggressive promotion of formula can undermine breastfeeding, which is widely recognized by health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) as the optimal source of nutrition for infants. This recall adds to the complex landscape of infant nutrition and the responsibilities of global food manufacturers.

The company has promised refunds to customers who purchased the recalled products. Nestle has not yet released details on the total number of units affected or the financial impact of the recall. Consumers are advised to check batch codes against those listed in the recall notice and to contact Nestle customer service for further instructions. The recall is ongoing, and Nestle is working with retailers and distributors to remove the affected products from shelves.