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Hong KongHealth & Environment

Nestlé Hong Kong’s baby formula recall: what parents need to know about risks

The Post examines the recall, the risk associated with the toxin, and recommended disposal steps for affected items

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Milk powder on display in a Hong Kong supermarket. Photo: Sam Tsang
Fiona Sun

Nestlé Hong Kong has recalled 21 batches of baby milk formula products over potential contamination with a toxin that can cause food poisoning.

The company revealed the precautionary recall on Tuesday, with the Centre for Food Safety urging parents to refrain from feeding their infants and young children the affected batches of powdered formula.

The Post examines the recall, the risk associated with the cereulide toxin, and the recommended disposal steps for affected items.

1. Why did Nestlé recall the products?

Nestlé Hong Kong said the recall was a precautionary measure as an ingredient from a supplier used in the affected batches might contain substances derived from the microorganism Bacillus cereus.

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But it added that the company had not received any reports of discomfort related to the affected products.

“Nevertheless, out of an abundance of caution, Nestlé has decided to conduct this voluntary recall in accordance with its stringent product quality and safety management practices,” it said.

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In addition to Hong Kong, Nestlé also recalled batches of its SMA, Beba and Nan products in Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Switzerland and Britain.

2. What is cereulide and how dangerous is it?

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