The UK Health Security Agency has reported 36 cases of children suffering symptoms consistent with cereulide toxin poisoning linked to baby formula recalls affecting SMA and Aptamil brands
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported 36 clinical cases of children exhibiting symptoms consistent with toxin poisoning, linked to recent baby formula recalls. The agency, along with its partners, 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 the implicated batches and developed symptoms.
On 5 January, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed that Nestle was conducting a precautionary product recall of several batches of 12 SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula products in the UK due to the potential presence of the cereulide toxin. The recall was updated with new product expiry dates on 9 January.
On 24 January, Danone – another major infant formula retailer – recalled one batch of Aptamil First Infant Formula because of cereulide contamination. It was revealed last week that the contamination leading to both recalls originated from a shared, third-party ingredient supplier.
The FSA advised those with any affected products to stop using them, switch to an alternative and contact their GP or NHS 111 if their baby has already consumed the formula. If the formula is prescribed, parents should consult a pharmacist or doctors before switching, the FSA added.
Bacillus cereus is a spore-producing bacterium capable of contaminating various food items, and when permitted to multiply, particular strains can generate the cereulide toxin, according to the UKHSA.
Signs of Bacillus cereus food poisoning and cereulide toxin poisoning predominantly involve vomiting, though may also encompass abdominal cramping and diarrhoea.
Symptoms typically manifest rapidly, occurring anywhere from 15 minutes to up to six hours following consumption. They generally clear up within 24 hours, provided there’s no continued exposure to the toxin.
Consuming the toxin seldom leads to more severe illness, though the UKHSA noted that a “few” instances of liver or kidney damage, muscle deterioration and multi-organ failure have been documented.
Those at heightened risk of complications encompass young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. The FSA continues its investigation into the contamination source.
Further information regarding which batches have been withdrawn can be accessed via food.gov.uk or the Nestlé website.
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