Belgium investigates possible baby illnesses linked to contaminated Nestle formula

Belgian authorities are examining suspected cases of infants falling ill after consuming recalled Nestle baby formula, amid warnings that confirmed infections may be underestimated due to limited testing requirements.

Belgian health authorities are investigating reports of babies who may have become sick after consuming contaminated Nestle baby formula, following a nationwide recall that has now widened across multiple continents.

The Flemish Department of Healthcare said the number of affected infants in Flanders may be higher than currently known. Spokesperson Joris Moonens told broadcaster VRT that doctors are not required to test for cereulide, the bacterial toxin at the centre of the recall, meaning potential cases may go undetected. The toxin can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The region’s first confirmed case was reported on 23 January. Since then, authorities have urged doctors to report any infant who consumed recalled formula and displays related symptoms. Moonens said the confirmed total is likely an “underestimation”.

Belgium’s Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FAVV) is reviewing around 20 reports from parents whose babies fell ill after using recalled products. Spokesperson Helene Bonte said the agency can collect leftover powder from households for laboratory analysis.

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Nestle initially retrieved some products from Belgian homes but later halted the practice. The recall has since expanded internationally. French companies Danone and Lactalis have withdrawn items after cereulide was detected in ingredients from a shared supplier. Nestle said the affected products were distributed in more than 50 countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

In a video message, Nestle CEO Philipp Navratil apologised to parents and described the incident as “the largest preventive recall in Nestle’s history.”

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