Danone Recalls Infant Formula Across Europe Due to Toxin Concerns

Danone, a leading food company, has announced a recall of specific batches of its infant formula made at its Irish facilities in Wexford and Macroom, Co Cork. This action was taken after concerns were raised about the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin that can cause food poisoning. The recall has been coordinated with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and involves multiple European countries, the UK, and other nations, including Singapore.

The affected formula brands include Aptamil, Nutrilion, and Cow & Gate. Danone has confirmed that none of the recalled batches were distributed within Ireland. The company's Irish operations employ approximately 750 individuals evenly split between its two manufacturing plants.

This recall follows similar actions by other major infant formula producers such as Nestlé and Lactalis, who also faced issues with cereulide contamination in a shared ingredient, ARA oil. This oil, originating from China, is used in the base powder for infant formula and was identified as the source of contamination leading to these recalls.

Nestlé, which also operates manufacturing facilities in Ireland, stated that their Irish plants were not involved in producing the affected formula. The health ministries in France are investigating two infant deaths potentially linked to Nestlé's recalled products.

The FSAI has alerted the European Commission about the recall through the EU's rapid alert system for food and feed, ensuring all impacted countries are informed. Both the FSAI and Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine are actively engaging with Danone to ensure comprehensive food safety measures are in place to protect consumers.