Lactalis Recalls Baby Formula in Response to Cereulide Toxin Detection

Lactalis, the French dairy conglomerate, announced a recall on 21 January for six batches of its Picot infant formula. This action follows the detection of the cereulide toxin, which was found in an ingredient supplied by an external source. The cereulide toxin is known to cause symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea in infants.

The recall was prompted by an alert from the French professional association for infant nutrition concerning the potential presence of cereulide in Omega-6 arachidonic acid (ARA), used in the formulation of the affected products. Lactalis Nutrition Santé (LNS) initiated the recall after conducting tests through an accredited independent laboratory, which confirmed the presence of the toxin in the reconstituted formula.

Among the recalled products are Picot Nutrition Quotidienne first-stage formula in 400, 800, and 850 grams, along with Picot Nutrition Quotidienne second-stage baby milk in 800 and 850 grams. Additionally, Picot AR second-stage 800g formula is included in the recall. Lactalis has urged parents to refrain from using the affected formulas.

The incident mirrors a recent situation faced by Nestlé, which also conducted a global recall due to the presence of cereulide in some of its infant formulas. Like Lactalis, Nestlé did not disclose the supplier responsible for the contaminated ingredient.

Lactalis has stated that no complaints or health reports have been communicated by the French authorities regarding the consumption of these products. The company remains in close contact with relevant authorities to manage the situation.

In a related development, Danone has reportedly halted the sale of certain infant formulas in Singapore at the request of the local regulator, despite no detection of cereulide or Bacillus cereus in its products.