Nestle recalls infant formula due to Cronobacter risk

Nestlé has recalled infant formula in several countries because of the potential presence of Cronobacter sakazakii.

The affected product is EXPERT PRO HA 1, which has different batch numbers depending on the country it was marketed.

Infant formula from Germany was sent to Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Sweden, according to a notice on the EU’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF).

In Denmark, it was sold to a few stores and online webshops from Nov. 29 to Dec. 13, 2023. The Danish version NAN EXPERTPRO HA 1 800-grams has article number 12489069, batch number 33120742C2, and an expiration date of 11.2025.

In Norway, the recall applies to 90 units sold to pharmacies, including online pharmacies. NAN EXPERTPRO HA 1 has article number 12468459, batch number 33120742C1, and a best-before date of 11.2025. Products were distributed between Dec. 7 and 12, 2023.

In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, BEBA EXPERT PRO HA 1, 800-gram with batch number 33140742F3 is involved.

The product’s batch number and expiration date are at the bottom of the can. No other products or batches are affected.

No positive products or illnesses
If illness or discomfort after having the product is suspected, Nestlé recommends consulting a pediatrician and mentioning the recall. The action was taken because of the potential risk of Cronobacter in the recalled batch.

Nestlé said that no Cronobacter sakazakii has been found in products distributed for sale, and no illnesses have been reported in connection with the consumption of the infant formula.

“The recall is taken as a precautionary measure as part of our strict product quality and safety protocols. The health and safety of babies is our top priority. We estimate that only a few products are sold to consumers,” said a company statement.

Cronobacter sakazakii is a pathogenic bacteria that can cause illness, mainly in infants younger than two months old and those born premature, have weakened immune systems, or are of low birth weight. Cronobacter is naturally found in the environment and can survive in low-moisture, dry foods, such as powdered infant formula and milk, herbal teas, and starches.

Symptoms related to infection in infants may include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice, grunting breaths, or abnormal body movements.

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