The Swiss multinational Nestlé has initiated a voluntary global recall of some specific batches of infant formula and follow-on milk. The decision, which affects 26 countries in Europe (including Italy), was taken as a precaution after potential microbiological anomalies were detected in an ingredient used in production.
At the center of the alert is cereulide, a toxin produced by some strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus. This substance can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps in infants who consume contaminated products.
The worrying peculiarity of this toxin is its resistance, in fact it is unlikely that the cereulide will be deactivated by cooking, boiling water or during the preparation of milk. This means that normal bottle preparation processes are not sufficient to neutralize the danger.
The lots withdrawn in Italy
In Italy, Nestlé has communicated the recall of 12 different products belonging to the Nan, Nidina and PreNan lines. This recall follows the one already carried out in December 2025 on two batches and represents an expansion of precautionary measures.
The products affected by the recall are the following:
NAN LINE:
PRENAN LINE:
NIDINA LINE:
All other Nestlé products and lots not affected by the recall are safe for consumption. The company is actively working with the relevant authorities to manage the situation and ensure that there is no risk to consumers.
Nestlé clarified that the potential microbiological contamination was identified in an ingredient supplied by one of its external partners. The company carried out in-depth analyzes and decided to proceed with the withdrawal even in the absence of confirmed cases of illness.
What parents should do
The Italian branch of Nestlé invites all parents and caregivers who have purchased these products to:
If you have any doubts about your child’s health or if you suspect that your child may have consumed one of the recalled products, it is essential to immediately consult your pediatrician or contact the national health service.
The company guaranteed a full refund for all recalled products and made itself available to consumers for any need.
Recalls also in other European countries
The scale of the problem is much broader. In the UK, the recall mainly affects the SMA line with dozens of different batches affected, while in Germany the Beba and Alfamino brands are affected. In France, some batches of Guigoz and Nidal have been recalled.
The British Food Standards Agency has issued a specific warning on the resistance of cereulide to heat treatments, underlining the importance of not using the recalled products even after boiling the water for preparation.
