Lactalis has recalled six batches of Picot infant milk after tests detected a potentially harmful bacterial substance, with products pulled from shelves in 18 countries. French authorities had been informed of the risk at least five days earlier, Radio France reported.
The company on Wednesday said the products may contain cereulide, a substance that can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and lethargy in babies. It said the recall was launched as a precaution after further testing on prepared bottles.
According to a Radio France investigation, the General Directorate for Food, which oversees food safety within the agriculture ministry, was aware from last Friday, 16 January, that Lactalis had received batches potentially contaminated with cereulide.
Initial tests carried out on finished products did not show levels considered problematic by the authorities, their report found.
Additional checks were later requested on prepared bottles, which revealed higher concentrations of the toxin after dilution, prompting the withdrawal from sale.
Lactalis said the issue was linked to an international supplier which provides ARA, an ingredient used in some infant formulas, adding that Spain and countries in South America were notably affected.
In France, the recall covers Picot Nutrition Quotidienne first-age products in 400g, 800g and 850g containers, Picot Nutrition Quotidienne second-age products in 800g and 850g containers, and Picot AR second-age in an 800g container.
The products are sold in pharmacies and large retail stores.
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Prepared bottles tested
Lactalis said the recall followed an alert from the French Professional Association for Infant Nutrition, an industry body.
The group said initial tests carried out on the powdered products produced compliant results.
Further analysis carried out on reconstituted products, meaning prepared bottles, later revealed the presence of cereulide, the company said in a statement.
“We are fully aware that this information may cause concern among parents of young children,” Lactalis said.
“At this stage, no complaints or reports linked to the consumption of these products have been reported by the French authorities."
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Recalls widening
The Lactalis recall comes as infant milk products have been recalled in several countries in recent weeks over potential cereulide contamination.
Nestlé recalled infant milk products earlier in January in several countries, including France, as a precaution.
The Swiss food group said the presence of cereulide had been confirmed in some of its products and said that other manufacturers could also be affected.
French health authorities have opened a judicial investigation in that case, including epidemiological and food safety inquiries, the Health Crisis Centre said.
