On January 8, 2026, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) ordered a halt to the sale of five batches of Nestle NAN infant formula and follow-on formula as a precautionary measure. The decision comes after concerns were raised over the potential presence of cereulide toxin in these products.
Affected Batches and Investigation
The affected batches of the made-in-Switzerland formula are as follows:
- NAN HA 3 SupremePro, batch 53030017C1
- NAN HA 2 SupremePro, batch 51420017C4
- NAN HA 1 SupremePro, batch 51460017C2
- NAN HA 1 SupremePro, batch 51470017C1
- NAN HA 3 SupremePro, batch 53030017B1
SFA and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) have confirmed that, as of now, there have been no reported cases of illness linked to the consumption of the affected formula in Singapore. However, investigations are ongoing, following notifications from the European Commission Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed and the International Food Safety Authorities Network regarding the recall of these infant formula batches.
Cereulide Toxin and Its Risks
Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus, and it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to six hours of consuming contaminated food and usually resolve within 24 hours. However, infants and other vulnerable groups are at a higher risk for complications from cereulide poisoning.
The agencies also noted that there are currently no international standards set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission or other relevant authorities regarding the acceptable level of cereulide toxin in infant formula and other food products.
What Affected Consumers Should Do
SFA and CDA advised consumers who have purchased the affected products not to feed them to their children. If children who have consumed these products experience any illness, parents are encouraged to seek medical advice promptly. Consumers can also contact their point of purchase for any product-related inquiries.
Nestle’s Response and Global Recall
While Nestle Singapore initially confirmed that no stocks were being recalled locally, the company has been proactive in working with the SFA and conducting thorough checks of its products. After testing, two batches were flagged for additional review, but lab results confirmed that they were safe for consumption.
Nestle had previously initiated a recall of the affected products in Europe, and the recall has now expanded to include markets in Africa, the Americas, and Asia. At least 37 countries, including many European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, China, Mexico, and South Africa, have issued health warnings regarding the potentially contaminated batches of Nestle infant formula.
Nestle has since ramped up production and is activating alternative suppliers for the ingredient that caused the quality issue, ensuring a continued supply of safe products to markets.
Conclusion
Although no illnesses have been reported in relation to the affected batches so far, the SFA’s decision to halt the sale of these products reflects the seriousness with which food safety is handled in Singapore. The public health alert serves as a reminder to always check product safety updates and act quickly if you suspect any health risks related to food products.
