Singapore Halts Sale of Nestle NAN Infant Formula Over Toxin Risk

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) announced on January 8, 2024, that it has suspended the sale of five batches of Nestle NAN infant formula and follow-on formula due to concerns regarding the potential presence of cereulide toxin. This decision was made as a precautionary measure while investigations are underway, as stated by both the SFA and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA).

The action follows a notification from the European Commission Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed and the International Food Safety Authorities Network, which alerted authorities about the recall of these infant formula products. Currently, there have been no confirmed cases of illness linked to the consumption of the affected formula in Singapore, though investigations are ongoing.

Details on Affected Products and Health Risks

The batches involved in the halt were produced in Switzerland and have been identified to potentially contain cereulide, a toxin that can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Symptoms typically manifest within 30 minutes to six hours after consumption and usually resolve within 24 hours. Infants, however, are particularly vulnerable to complications from such toxins, which raises significant health concerns.

The SFA also highlighted that no international standards regarding acceptable levels of cereulide toxin in infant formula have been established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission or other international health authorities. To address potential risks, the SFA is collaborating closely with the CDA, which is monitoring hospitals for any cases of cereulide poisoning among children.

Consumers who have purchased the affected batches are advised not to feed them to their children. Those whose children have consumed the products and are experiencing health issues should seek medical attention promptly.

Nestle’s Response and Global Recall

In response to the situation, a spokesperson for Nestle Singapore clarified that the company has not initiated a recall of any stocks in Singapore. Following a thorough check of its inventory, Nestle identified two batches that required additional review. Subsequent laboratory testing confirmed that these batches were safe for consumption. The spokesperson reassured that all other products sold by Nestle Singapore are considered safe.

Nestle had previously recalled the affected infant formula in Europe, but the scope of the recall has expanded to include markets across Africa, the Americas, and Asia. Health warnings regarding the potentially contaminated formulas have been issued in at least 37 countries, including numerous European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico, and South Africa. No illnesses related to the affected batches have been confirmed as of now.

On January 6, 2024, Nestle announced that it had tested all arachidonic acid oil and associated oil mixtures used in the production of its potentially affected infant nutrition products after a quality concern was identified with an ingredient from a leading supplier. The company is now increasing production and activating alternative suppliers of the acid oil to ensure a steady supply of its products.

As the investigation continues, the SFA and CDA remain committed to ensuring the safety of food products available to consumers in Singapore.