Nestlé has issued a voluntary recall of a specific batch of its NAN Special Pro HA infant formula after identifying a potential safety risk linked to cereulide, a toxin that can cause illness in babies.

The warning applies to products sold across South Africa and those exported to Namibia and Eswatini.

“This recall is issued as a precautionary measure to protect the safety and wellbeing of babies,” the company said.

“Parents and caregivers are urged to stop using the affected product immediately.”

The affected product is the 800-gram tin intended for babies from birth to 12 months, with batch number 51660742F3.

According to Prudence Moilwa, Head of Complaints and Investigations at the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the formula was manufactured on June 15, 2025, and has a best-before date of December 15, 2026.

Cereulide can cause symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea, and in severe cases may lead to dehydration and other complications, particularly dangerous for infants.

“The safety and wellbeing of babies is our absolute priority,” Nestlé said in a statement.

Parents are advised to check the batch code, which can be found on the base of the tin, and return affected products to the retailer where they were purchased for a full refund.

“Consumers who may have these batches should not feed this product to their baby,” Nestlé said.

“If you have been prescribed one of these batches, please destroy the product and speak to your healthcare professional for advice on an alternative.”

While no confirmed cases of illness linked to the recalled batch have been reported so far, parents are urged to remain vigilant.

“Anyone concerned about their baby’s health should contact a healthcare professional immediately,” Moilwa said.

Nestlé said that all other products and batches not listed in the recall remain safe to consume.

“We sincerely apologise for any worry or inconvenience caused to parents, caregivers and customers,” the company said.

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