Baby Formula Recall: 36 Children Suffer Toxic Poisoning Symptoms | ITV News

Health authorities in the United Kingdom are currently investigating a significant health concern involving baby formula. A total of 36 children have reported symptoms consistent with cereulide toxin poisoning after consuming specific batches of infant formula.

Details of the Investigation

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has collected notifications of illnesses from various regions:

• England: 24 cases
• Scotland: 7 cases
• Wales: 3 cases
• Northern Ireland: 1 case
• Crown Dependencies: 1 case

These reports have raised concern about the safety of several baby formula products. On January 5, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed that Nestlé initiated a precautionary recall of multiple batches of 12 SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula products due to the potential presence of the cereulide toxin.

Recent Developments

The recall was updated on January 9 to include revised product expiry dates. Furthermore, on January 24, Danone issued a recall for one batch of Aptamil First Infant Formula because of similar contamination issues. Investigations revealed that both recalls were linked to contamination from a shared third-party ingredient supplier.

Health Advice for Parents

Authorities have advised parents holding any affected products to cease their use immediately. Families are encouraged to switch to alternative formulas and consult healthcare professionals if their child has ingested the contaminated product. This step is especially crucial for prescriptions; parents should seek guidance from pharmacists or doctors before making any changes.

Understanding Bacillus cereus

Bacillus cereus is a bacterium capable of contaminating various food items. Certain strains can produce the harmful cereulide toxin, leading to food poisoning. Symptoms commonly include:

• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea

Symptoms often appear rapidly, occurring within 15 minutes to six hours after ingestion. Generally, they resolve within 24 hours, provided there is no further exposure to the toxin.

Potential Complications

While serious illness from cereulide toxin is rare, severe cases have been recorded, including liver or kidney damage, muscle breakdown, and multi-organ failure. Vulnerable individuals such as young children and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

For detailed information on the recalled batches, consumers can visit the official FSA website or the Nestlé website for updates.