The UKHSA has not been able to confirm categorically that the infants had been poisoned but it has been confirmed they consumed the specific brands of infant formula affected.
The Danone batch affected is the 800g pack coded EXP 31-10-2026.
Meanwhile, for Nestle the concerns of possible contamination relate to SMA infant formula and follow-on formula. The batches affected are listed on the company’s website, external.
Cereulide is a toxin which is unlikely to be destroyed by cooking, or when making the infant milk.
If it is consumed it can lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps developing quickly.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has said the toxin was present in a specific ingredient identified as arachidonic acid oil. The oil is added to infant formula to give it some of the important growth properties contained in breast milk.
The FSA has urged parents who had any of the affected products left, to stop using them and switch to an alternative formula.
If you have fed it to your baby and are concerned, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice, it added.
The FSA is working with manufacturers to trace all products that may have used the affected ingredient and ensure all affected products are removed from sale.
