Contaminated Infant Formula Recalls: Aptamil, Cow & Gate and SMA 

The recalled formula included Aptamil and Cow & Gate First Infant Milk and Follow-On Milk, as well as the recall by Nestlé of several SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula products, following concerns about the possible presence of cereulide toxin.

Understanding the risk of cereulide toxin 

The consumption of cereulide can lead to a rapid onset of symptoms, often occurring within minutes to a few hours, which may include: 

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhoea 

In very young infants, these symptoms can be more serious and may require urgent medical assessment.  

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has confirmed that cereulide is highly heat‑stable, meaning it is not destroyed during preparation, even when formula is made in line with NHS guidance.  

Which products are affected? 

The recalls apply to a range of infant formula products sold in the UK, across different pack sizes and best‑before dates. Full details of the contaminated baby formula products, including specific batch numbers, are available via the following links on the FSA’s website.

• Aptamil and Cow & Gate recall: View the full list of products 
• Nestlé SMA recall: View the full list of products 

Ongoing investigations 

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), alongside public health agencies across England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland, has been supporting the FSA and local authorities in responding to the recalls. 

UKHSA has confirmed that, as of early February 2026, dozens of clinical notifications had been received across the UK involving infants with symptoms consistent with cereulide toxin exposure after consuming recalled formula. 

Read the UKHSA Health Protection Report covering updates published on 29 January and 5 February 2026. 

Similar infant formula products have also been recalled in multiple European countries. In France, authorities are investigating reports of serious illness and fatalities linked to cereulide contamination in infant formula products.

Read the BBC News report on the French investigation into baby formula contamination.

How Leigh Day can help with baby formula recall claims  

We are investigating potential legal claims on behalf of families whose children may have been affected. 

If your baby has experienced symptoms after consuming the recalled Aptamil, Cow & Gate or SMA formula our food safety team may be able to help. 

Please contact Angela Bruno on 020 7650 1286 or by email at ABruno@leighday.co.uk.