South Africa’s National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued an urgent recall for a batch of Nestlé NAN Special Pro HA infant formula due to the potential presence of cereulide, a heat-stable toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus bacteria. This toxin can cause food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, more severe illness, posing a particular risk to infants.
The affected product is the 800g tin of NAN Special Pro HA (hypoallergenic formula for babies aged 0-12 months), with the specific batch number 51660742F3. It was manufactured on 15 June 2025 and has an expiry date of 15 December 2026. The batch was sold across South Africa and exported to Namibia and Eswatini.
Consumers are strongly advised to immediately stop using the product if it matches the batch number and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Parents should check the bottom or side of the tin for the batch details.
Nestlé initiated the voluntary recall after detecting a quality issue in an ingredient (arachidonic acid oil) supplied by a third-party provider. Comprehensive testing of related oil mixes prompted the precautionary measure. A Nestlé spokesperson stated: “After a quality issue was detected in an ingredient from a leading supplier, testing of all arachidonic acid oil and corresponding oil mixes used in the production of its potentially impacted infant nutrition products [was conducted].”
Importantly, no illnesses have been reported or confirmed in connection with this batch, and the recall is precautionary.
This recall forms part of a broader global action by Nestlé affecting various infant formula brands (including SMA, BEBA, and others) in multiple countries due to similar cereulide concerns. For the latest updates, consumers can contact Nestlé South Africa or visit the NCC website.
Additional reporting by Reuters and local sources.