Key Highlights
- Danone is recalling specific batches of its formulas distributed across the UK and Europe due to potential contamination with cereulide.
- Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus, capable of causing food poisoning in infants.
- The recall affects infant and follow-on formula products manufactured in Ireland and exported to multiple EU nations, the UK, and other markets.
- Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) advises that none of these batches were distributed within Ireland but have been exported internationally.
A Urgent Recall on Infant Formula Due to Harmful Toxin
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued a critical alert, advising the public in the UK and Europe about an urgent recall of specific batches of infant formula manufactured by Danone. This precautionary measure is taken following concerns regarding potential contamination with cereulide, a toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus bacteria.
The Contaminated Ingredient
According to the FSAI and Danone’s official statement, the implicated ingredient is ARA oil, which was manufactured in China. This crucial raw material was added as an ingredient in the base powder used to make both infant formula and follow-on formula products. The contamination with cereulide poses a significant risk, particularly for infants, as this toxin can cause food poisoning.
Scope of the Recall
The recall primarily targets specific batches of infant and follow-on formulas that were manufactured in Ireland but have been exported to various countries across Europe, including several UK regions. The FSAI has communicated with the European Commission regarding the situation, ensuring a coordinated response across different jurisdictions.
Regulatory Oversight and Consumer Safety
Danone, as a responsible manufacturer, is taking swift action in line with food safety guidelines provided by local regulatory bodies such as the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The company has stated that no Danone products are currently on sale or available for purchase within the Irish market. However, as a precautionary measure, they have voluntarily recalled an isolated batch of Aptamil First Infant Milk in the UK, with details as follows:
- Batch number/expiry: 31-10-2026
- Duration on shelf: Approximately two weeks in July 2025
The FSAI continues to engage closely with Danone to ensure all food safety measures are being implemented. This includes rigorous testing and monitoring of the affected batches, as well as providing guidance to other manufacturers facing similar challenges.
Expert Guidance and Consumer Assurance
Danone emphasizes its commitment to consumer safety, stating: “In light of the current situation in the industry, some local food safety authorities are evolving their guidance. This is a targeted recall, mainly in Europe, of only a very limited number of specific batches of infant formula products.” The company assures that parents can continue to use their existing supplies of infant formula without concern as long as they have not purchased any of the recalled batches.
Experts from the FSAI and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine are working diligently to ensure all necessary measures are in place to safeguard public health. The recall serves as a reminder of the stringent measures put in place to protect vulnerable populations such as infants from potential foodborne illnesses.
