NAFDAC Issues Public Alert on Aptamil Infant Milk Over Contamination Risk

Health, Investigation, Lifestyle

LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned consumers about potential health risks associated with certain batches of Aptamil, Cow & Gate First Infant Milk, and Follow-on Milk Formula produced by Danone Nutricia. The agency cited possible contamination with cereulide toxin, a heat-stable peptide produced by Bacillus cereus that can cause severe food poisoning.

In a Public Alert (No. 08/2026) issued on February 25, NAFDAC confirmed that Danone Nutricia has recalled several batches of the affected products manufactured in Ireland and Hungary, which were distributed across the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

The agency stressed that the recall does not affect Aptamil Infant Formula manufactured specifically for Nigeria, which complies with Codex standards and remains safe for consumption.

NAFDAC clarified that not all Danone Nutricia products registered in Nigeria are impacted, but urged consumers to verify product details below and registration numbers to avoid purchasing unapproved, harmful items.

The regulator added that Danone Nutricia had proactively blocked the affected consignments at its Nigerian warehouses as a precautionary measure. However, it remains unclear whether any of the recalled products have already reached retail outlets in the country.

Cereulide toxin, linked to emetic food poisoning, is resistant to heat and cooking processes. Outbreaks are often associated with improperly stored starchy foods, but contamination in infant formula raises heightened public health concerns.