Finance
UK says infant formula contamination could have affected 36 babies
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on February 5, 2026
2 min readLast updated: February 5, 2026
Quick Summary
UK investigates formula contamination affecting 36 babies. Nestle and Danone recall products due to toxin risk, monitored by UKHSA.
UK Authorities Investigate Infant Formula Contamination Affecting 36 Babies
Investigation into Infant Formula Contamination
LONDON, Feb 5 (Reuters) - British authorities investigating baby formula contamination said on Thursday there had been 36 likely cases of children developing symptoms consistent with poisoning from affected batches in the country.
Recall of Affected Products
Nestle recalled some batches of its key infant nutrition products, including SMA, BEBA and NAN infant and follow-on formulas, across Europe on January 6 due to potential contamination with a toxin that could cause nausea and vomiting.
Health Monitoring and Surveillance
Two weeks later, Danone recalled one batch of its Aptamil infant formula. Worries over the presence of the cereulide toxin have triggered recalls in dozens of countries and raised concerns among parents.
The UK Health Security Agency said that given the widespread availability of the affected products prior to their recall some cases were expected after it alerted hospitals to look out for symptoms consistent with the poisoning.
"Current surveillance indicators do not show unusual increases in reports of vomiting in children under the age of one for this time of year, but UKHSA are monitoring these outputs," the statement on Thursday said.
(Reporting by Sarah Young, editing by Catarina Demony)
Key Takeaways
- •36 babies in the UK affected by formula contamination.
- •Nestle and Danone recall products due to toxin risk.
- •UKHSA monitors health indicators for unusual symptoms.
- •Cereulide toxin concerns lead to European recalls.
- •Parents worried over infant formula safety.
Frequently Asked Questions about UK says infant formula contamination could have affected 36 babies
1What is product recall?
A product recall is a request to return a product after the discovery of safety issues or product defects that might endanger consumers.
2What is infant formula?
Infant formula is a manufactured food designed to support the nutritional needs of infants, typically used as a substitute for breast milk.
3What is consumer safety?
Consumer safety refers to the protection of consumers from products that could cause harm, ensuring that products meet safety standards.
