Nestlé Recalls SMA Formula Over Toxin Concerns

Nestlé has launched a voluntary recall of specific batches of its SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula in the UK and Ireland due to the potential presence of the toxin cereulide, offering full refunds. 

“There have been no confirmed reports of any illness associated with consumption of the products concerned,” Nestlé says. 

“Nevertheless, out of an abundance of caution, Nestlé has decided to perform this voluntary product recall in line with our strict product quality and safety protocols.”

Precautions and health

Nestlé says “the safety and wellbeing of babies is our absolute priority” and is recalling selected SMA infant and follow-on formula batches “as a precautionary measure” because of the possible presence of cereulide. 

Cereulide is a heat-stable toxin produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus bacteria and is associated with rapid‑onset food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.

Parents, caregivers and healthcare providers are being told that any affected products should not be fed to babies, even though there have been no confirmed reports of illness linked to the recalled batches. 

“We understand that this news may cause concern for parents and we sincerely apologise for any concern or inconvenience caused to parents, caregivers and customers,” the company says.

Nestlé also reiterates that product safety, particularly in infant nutrition, is central to its wider corporate commitment to providing high‑quality, science‑based nutrition.

About Nestlé

Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage company, operating in around 189 countries with a portfolio of more than 2,000 brands spanning coffee, confectionery, pet care, dairy, infant nutrition and more. Founded in 1866, it has grown around a core purpose to “enhance quality of life and contribute to a healthier future” through safe, high‑quality and increasingly health‑focused products.

The group invests heavily in nutrition science and food safety, combining R&D with extensive quality management systems to ensure its products meet stringent regulatory standards and internal requirements. 

In recent years it has also sharpened its focus on responsible marketing, clearer nutrition labelling and reformulation to support healthier and more sustainable diets worldwide.

About SMA, Nestlé’s infant brand

SMA is one of Nestlé’s flagship infant nutrition brands, offering formulas tailored to different stages of early life, from birth through to toddlerhood.

Its products are widely available through supermarkets, pharmacies and healthcare channels in the UK, Ireland and other markets, and are often recommended as part of specialist infant feeding plans.

As a leading formula line serving some of the youngest and most vulnerable consumers, SMA is subject to particularly rigorous safety, quality and traceability standards within Nestlé’s portfolio.