Two companies have recalled infant formula products nationally due to the potential presence of the toxin cereulide, a substance produced by the Bacillus cereus microorganism.
The recalls were conducted by:
- Nestle for 5 batches of Alfamino formula
- Sanulac Nutritionals Australia Pty Ltd for 2 batches of Alula formula.
Following international recalls, the potential presence of the cereulide toxin has been linked to an ingredient used in the products.
Other batches and formulas produced by Nestle and Sanulac Nutritionals Australia Pty Ltd are safe to use.
Symptoms linked to cereulide may include vomiting, diarrhoea or unusual lethargy. These symptoms can appear between 30 minutes to 6 hours after exposure and typically resolve within 24 hours.
No cases of illness linked to these products have been reported in Australia.
Food recalls
Nestlé - Alfamino Infant Formula (0-12 months) 400g | Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Cereulide
Cereulide toxin is a potent cytotoxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus.
It is a cyclic dodecadepsipeptide that disrupts mitochondrial function, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Cereulide is resistant to heat and alkalinity, making it difficult to eliminate from food, which can pose significant health risks, especially for infants and the elderly.
Parents or carers concerned about the health of their infant should seek medical advice.