Eswatini on alert as Nestlé formula recall widens

MBABANE – EmaSwati parents can breathe a temporary sigh of relief following confirmation by the Ministry of Health that Eswatini is not currently affected by Nestlé’s global recall of selected baby formula products.

These products were withdrawn over fears of possible contamination by a dangerous toxin.

The multinational food giant recently issued an emergency recall of specific batches of its SMA infant and follow-on formulas after detecting the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by certain strains of Bacillus cereus.

Health authorities internationally have warned that cereulide can cause severe nausea and vomiting and, in extreme cases, can disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to serious health complications, particularly in infants.

Ministry of Health Communications Officer Nsindiso Tsabedze confirmed that Eswatini has not yet been listed among the affected countries but said authorities are closely monitoring developments.

“The ministry is closely monitoring the situation and will act swiftly once we receive information that the country is impacted by the recall,” Tsabedze said.

Nestlé, in its consumer recall notice, stressed that the safety and wellbeing of babies remains its highest priority and described the recall as a precautionary measure taken in line with its strict quality and safety protocols.

The company advised parents and caregivers to check batch codes, which are printed on the base of tins or boxes for powdered formula and on the side or top of containers for ready-to-feed products.

Consumers in possession of the affected batches were urged not to feed the product to their babies, to destroy it, and to consult healthcare professionals for advice on suitable alternatives. Nestlé further stated that all other products and batches not included in the recall are safe to consume.

While Eswatini has been spared for now, the recall has raised serious concerns about product safety oversight and the effectiveness of international food supply monitoring systems.

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