Belgian health authorities are coordinating with manufacturers to recall specific lots of infant formula from Nestlé and Babybio due to potential contamination with cereulide,a bacterial toxin. The recalls, initially reported Monday, affect Nan Optipro 1 and Caprea 1 formulas and follow a wider, ongoing trend of similar product withdrawals across more than sixty countries since December. Parents and caregivers should check lot numbers and best-before dates to determine if their purchased formula is impacted.
Nestlé announced on Monday, February 5th, the recall of two additional lots of its Nan Optipro 1 infant formula (800-gram size) due to a possible contamination with cereulide, a bacterial toxin. Simultaneously, Vitagermine, in agreement with the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (Afsca), is initiating a recall of its Babybio Caprea 1 product (800-gram size) for the same reason.
The affected Nan Optipro 1 products bear lot numbers 53370346AA and 53380346AA and have a use-by date of December 31, 2027. These were distributed through pharmacies, online pharmacies, and various retailers. The Babybio Caprea 1 formula subject to recall has lot number 899014 and a best-before date of July 28, 2027. These products were sold between November and January through Medi Market and the Newpharma.be website.
The recalls follow a broader trend that began in December, with numerous manufacturers—including industry giants Nestlé (Guigoz, Nidal), Danone (Blédilait, Gallia), and Lactalis (Picot)—as well as smaller players like Vitagermine (Babybio), initiating similar actions in over sixty countries, including Belgium. These recalls are linked to the potential for contamination with cereulide.
Cereulide, produced by certain bacteria, can cause gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting and diarrhea.
