Toxic Baby Formula Investigation: Over 60 Infants Affected in UK
More than 60 babies in the UK have fallen ill after consuming infant formula contaminated with cereulide, a heat-resistant toxin. The contamination has led to recalls of numerous batches of SMA infant formula and follow-on formula by Nestlé, as well as Aptamil and Cow & Gate products by Danone. Investigations are ongoing, with health officials working to determine the full extent of the impact and prevent further illness.
What is Cereulide and Why is it Dangerous?
Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus bacteria. According to the Food Standards Agency, the toxin can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps in infants [Food Standards Agency]. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that testing capabilities to fully confirm cereulide poisoning in affected children are currently limited, but they are working to improve testing [Sky News].
Which Products Have Been Recalled?
Nestlé initiated a precautionary recall of several SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula products in January 2026. The recall included the following products and batch codes [Food Standards Agency]:
- SMA Advanced First Infant Milk (800g) – Batch codes: 51450742F1, 52319722BA, 52819722AA, Best before May 2027
- SMA Advanced Follow-On Milk (800g) – Batch codes: 52879722AA (Best before April 2027), 51240742F2 (Best before May 2027), 51890742F2 (Best before August 2027)
- SMA Anti Reflux (800g) – Batch codes: 52099722BA (Best before April 2027), 51570742F3, 52099722BB, 52739722BA (Best before June 2027)
- SMA ALFAMINO (400g) – Multiple batch codes with best before dates ranging from January 2027 to November 2027 (see Food Standards Agency for full list)
- SMA First Infant Milk (800g) – Batch codes: 51170346AA, 51170346AB (Best before April 2027), 51340346AB (Best before May 2027), 51580346AA, 51590346AA, 51590346AB (Best before June 2027)
Danone has likewise recalled batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate first infant milk due to the same contamination concerns [Sky News].
What Have Health Officials Said?
The UKHSA is investigating cases across the UK where children have shown symptoms consistent with cereulide toxin poisoning. As of March 5, 2026, the investigation includes 35 male and 26 female infants [Sky News]. Investigators have determined that the toxin originated from an oil produced by a third-party supplier used by both Nestlé and Danone. Both companies have confirmed they are no longer using this supplier [Sky News].
What Should Parents Do?
The Food Standards Agency advises parents to stop using any recalled formula immediately, even if their baby hasn’t shown signs of illness [Food Standards Agency]. If the formula was prescribed by a health professional, parents should consult a pharmacist or medical professional before switching to a different formula. Parents should recheck their homes and remove all recalled formula to prevent further illness [Sky News].
Further Information
For a comprehensive list of recalled products and further information, please refer to the following resources:
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