Nestlé has announced a nationwide recall in South Africa for a specific batch of NAN baby formula after identifying a potential food safety concern linked to an ingredient issue affecting infant nutrition products in multiple countries.
The company says the move is precautionary and that no illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the affected products to date.
Which product is being recalled in South Africa
According to reports, the recalled product in South Africa is NAN Special Pro HA 0-12 6 x 800g, with batch number 51660742F3.
It was manufactured on 15 June 2025 and has an expiration date of 15 December 2026.
Nestlé has said no other Nestlé products or other batches of the same product are affected.
Why the recall was issued
Nestlé’s global advisory says the issue was triggered by the detection of a quality problem involving an ingredient supplied by a major supplier.
In response, Nestlé says it tested all arachidonic acid (ARA) oil and oil mixes used in potentially affected infant nutrition products.
Investigations have raised concern about the potential presence of cereulide, which Nestlé describes as a bacterial-origin substance created by certain strains of Bacillus cereus and linked to foodborne illness.
What parents and caregivers should do
Nestlé’s advisory instructs parents and caregivers to discontinue use of any affected product in line with the recall notice in their market.
It says consumers should check the batch number on packaging and follow local Nestlé or brand webpages for recall instructions and refund processes.
In South Africa, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) has encouraged consumers to return the affected product to shops for a full refund.
The symptoms Nestlé says to watch for
Nestlé’s advisory lists symptoms associated with possible exposure as severe or persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, or unusual lethargy, typically appearing between 30 minutes and six hours after exposure.
It advises parents with concerns about a child’s health or nutrition to speak to a paediatrician or healthcare provider.
What officials and the company say about illness reports and distribution
Nestlé says no illnesses have been confirmed so far in connection with the products involved. The NCC also confirmed the recall in a statement, describing it as a food safety concern linked to possible cereulide presence.
The commission said the affected product was shipped to Namibia and Eswatini.
