At least 36 youngsters endure ‘toxin poisoning’ linked to UK child method recall
At least 36 children have been ‘poisoned’ in reports linked to a recent baby formula recalls, the UK Health Security Agency has said.
The health agency say the received clinical reports of children suffering symptoms consistent with toxin poisoning.
The UKHSA said it and partner agencies had received 24 notifications in England, seven in Scotland, three in Wales, one in Northern Ireland and one from the Crown Dependencies of children who had consumed implicated batches and developed symptoms.
On January 5, the Food Standards Agency confirmed that Nestle was undertaking a precautionary product recall of several batches of 12 SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula products in the UK due to the possible presence of the cereulide toxin.
(Image: Getty Images)
The recall was later updated with new product expiry dates on January 9.
On January 24, Danone – another widely distributed infant formula retailer – recalled one batch of Aptamil First Infant Formula because of cereulide contamination.
It emerged last week that the contamination that led to both recalls originated from a shared, third-party, ingredient supplier.
The Food Standards Agency also warned parents of symptoms of cereulide poisoning in their latest update on the Nestle recall, released on February 4.
(Image: Getty Images/Image Source)
They wrote: “Cereulide is a toxin produced by some strains of Bacillus cereus. Cereulide is highly heat stable meaning it is unlikely to be deactivated or destroyed by cooking, using boiling water or when making the infant milk. If consumed it can lead to rapid onset of symptoms.
“Symptoms caused by this toxin include nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
“Even if you have not identified ill-health in your baby as a result of consumption of this product, it is essential to stop using it.
“If the infant formula or follow-on formula was prescribed by a health professional for your infant, consult a pharmacist or other medical professional before changing formula.”
More detail about which batches have been recalled can be found on food.gov.uk.
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