UAE Recalls Nestlé Baby Formula Products After Contamination Scare

The United Arab Emirates has announced a voluntary and precautionary recall of selected Nestlé infant formula products after traces of a toxin-producing bacterium were detected in one of the raw materials used in production, authorities said.

The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), in coordination with Nestlé, confirmed late Wednesday that a limited number of formula batches — including NAN Comfort 1, NAN OPTIPRO 1, NAN SUPREME PRO (1, 2, 3), S-26 Ultima (1, 2, 3) and Alfamino — are being withdrawn from the UAE market as a precautionary measure.

The recall follows global action by Nestlé after internal testing flagged the presence of Bacillus cereus bacteria in a component used during manufacturing. This bacterium can produce a toxin known as cereulide, which is linked to food poisoning symptoms such as nausea and vomiting if consumed.

Safety First: No Illnesses Reported

EDE emphasised that no illnesses or adverse health events associated with the affected products have been reported in the UAE to date. All other Nestlé products on the market remain cleared for consumption.

To protect public health, the recalled batches have been quarantined in Nestlé’s and distributors’ warehouses, and ongoing efforts aim to remove remaining quantities from retail outlets and online platforms throughout the country.

Regional Context

The recall in the UAE aligns with broader regional and international recalls of specific Nestlé infant formula products over the same toxin concern. Gulf neighbours, including Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and others, have issued warnings or taken similar precautions regarding affected formula batches.

Parents and caregivers in the UAE and across the region are advised to check product packaging for details and discontinue use of any formulas matching the recalled batches. Healthcare professionals say that if infants who consumed affected formula show symptoms like persistent vomiting or abdominal discomfort, caregivers should contact medical services.

The move underscores continued vigilance by health authorities to maintain strict food safety standards for infant nutrition products amid global supply chain risks and contamination concerns.