EU tightens baby formula toxin rules after recalls

The European Union announced tighter safety rules for baby formula on Friday after a cereulide contamination scare led to recalls by major manufacturers.

The European Commission said the EU's 27 member states had approved a permanent food safety criterion for cereulide in infant formula. It said strict maximum safety limits would apply to dried and liquid products.

Cereulide is a toxin that can cause severe vomiting in newborns.

Nestle recalled dozens of infant formula batches in around 60 countries in December 2025 over the potential presence of the toxin. Similar recalls by manufacturers including Danone and Lactalis followed up to April 2026.

The Commission said the contamination originated from the use of a Chinese-imported ingredient, an oil containing arachidonic acid, and resulted from deficiencies in the production process.