ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – A global food safety alarm has been raised after Nestlé recalled baby formula products in at least 49 countries due to suspected contamination with cereulide, a toxin known to cause severe nausea and vomiting, particularly dangerous for infants.
The issue has drawn attention from Indonesian lawmakers. Netty Prasetiyani Aher, a member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IX, which oversees health and food safety, urged authorities to strengthen oversight of baby food products, especially imported formula.
“Infants are the most vulnerable group. Any potential risk related to baby food products must be treated with the highest level of seriousness and caution,” Netty said in a written statement on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
Recall Began in December 2025
The global recall began in December 2025 and involved baby formula products sold across Europe, Turkey, Argentina, and other regions. The products are suspected of being contaminated with cereulide, a toxin produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus.
Cereulide is particularly dangerous because it is heat-resistant and can survive standard food processing methods. In infants, exposure may result in acute gastrointestinal illness and serious health complications.
Nestlé acknowledged public concern and emphasized its commitment to safety.
“Food safety and the well-being of all infants remain our top priority,” the company said in an official statement.
“We understand this news may cause concern, and we are committed to providing clear and transparent information, as well as support for parents and caregivers throughout this process,” Nestlé added.
Parliament Welcomes BPOM Action, Calls for Stronger Controls
Netty welcomed the swift response from Indonesia’s Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM), which has coordinated with international regulators to trace affected products. However, she stressed that heightened vigilance remains essential.
“What matters most is ensuring that baby formula products circulating in Indonesia are truly safe and not part of the batches recalled abroad,” said the legislator from the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS).
She noted that complex global supply chains require robust, transparent, and responsive national surveillance systems to prevent unsafe products from reaching consumers.
List of Recalled Nestlé Baby Formula Products
The recalled products vary by country. In Europe, the recall includes popular brands such as SMA, BEBA, and NAN.
United Kingdom
Products affected include:
SMA Advanced First Infant Milk 800g
SMA Advanced Follow-on Milk 800g
SMA First Infant Milk (multiple sizes)
SMA Comfort
SMA Lactose Free
SMA Anti Reflux
ALFAMINO 400g (specific batch numbers listed by Nestlé UK)
Ireland and Northern Ireland
SMA Advanced
SMA First Infant Milk
SMA Comfort
SMA Gold Prem
SMA Little Steps
SMA Alfamino (selected batches)
Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
Countries affected include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, and Iran.
Products recalled include:
NAN OptiPro
NAN Comfort
NAN Supreme
S-26 Ultima
S-26 Gold
NAN Duo
ALFAMINO and ALFAMINO Junior
Hong Kong
Recalled products include:
NAN Pro
NAN Infinipro
S-26 Ultima
ILLUMA HA, ORG, LUXA, and ATWO (affected batch numbers released by Nestlé Hong Kong)
What About Indonesia?
Responding to public concern, Nestlé Indonesia stated that all products sold domestically are safe for consumption.
According to the company:
– None of Nestlé Indonesia’s factories are affected
– Locally produced products are confirmed safe
– Imported products distributed in Indonesia have passed comprehensive safety and quality testing in compliance with national standards
“Nestlé Indonesia remains committed to applying the highest quality standards and providing clear and transparent information to parents and the wider public,” the company said.
Lawmakers Call for Transparency and Product Traceability
Despite the reassurance, Netty stressed that corporate statements must be backed by independent regulatory verification.
“Parents have the right to clear and accurate information. Transparency is essential to ensure calm, vigilance, and protection for the public,” she said.
She also urged authorities to strengthen product traceability systems, allowing regulators to quickly identify and isolate any problematic batches.
“Food safety is a pillar of public health protection. The safety of infants must always come before business interests,” Netty concluded. (AT Network)
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