Singapore authorities have expanded a recall of selected infant formula products after further testing detected the presence of a harmful toxin, raising renewed concerns among parents about food safety standards and infant nutrition. The move follows earlier action taken against several batches of infant formula sold locally, as regulators continue investigations into the source of contamination.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said intensified surveillance and laboratory testing uncovered the toxin in two additional infant formula products from well-known brands. The discovery came after an earlier order to halt sales of five affected batches, prompting officials to widen the recall as a precautionary step while investigations are ongoing. Authorities stressed that consumer safety, particularly for infants, remains the top priority.
According to the SFA, the newly affected products may be linked to the same raw ingredient supplier as the earlier recalled batches. This has led regulators to focus closely on supply chain controls and ingredient sourcing, an issue of growing importance amid rising consumer awareness of food safety, quality assurance and regulatory compliance in Singapore.
Expanded Recall And Supply Chain Concerns
| S/N | Product name | Packaging Size | Batch number | Expiry date | Country of origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nestle NAN HA1 SupremePro | 800g | 52340017C3 | 31/08/27 | Switzerland |
| 2 | Dumex Dulac 1 | 800g | 101570778C | 03/09/27 | Thailand |
The authorities explained that the combined batches involved make up less than five per cent of Singapore’s total imported infant formula supply, meaning the majority of products on shelves remain unaffected. Nonetheless, the recall highlights how even a small lapse in upstream controls can have wide-reaching implications in a market where infant formula is considered a critical and sensitive product.
SFA also confirmed that a Singapore-based manufacturer had used the same raw ingredient in infant formula intended for export. As a result, the company has been directed to suspend exports of the affected products, and relevant overseas authorities have been informed. This step underscores Singapore’s broader commitment to maintaining international confidence in its food manufacturing and export standards.
Regulators emphasised that the recall is precautionary in nature. Investigations are still underway to determine how the toxin entered the products and whether additional items could be affected. Enhanced testing and monitoring will continue in the coming weeks.
Health Risks And Reported Case
So far, one case has been reported involving a child who consumed an affected product and later developed mild symptoms. The child has since recovered. Authorities noted that there is currently no definitive clinical laboratory test to confirm poisoning by this particular toxin, and assessments are based on symptoms and exposure history.
The toxin involved, cereulide, is produced by certain strains of the Bacillus cereus bacterium. Exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea, with symptoms typically appearing within 30 minutes to six hours after consumption and resolving within a day. Infants and individuals with weaker immune systems face higher risks of complications.
Advice For Parents And Caregivers
Parents and caregivers are advised not to feed the affected products to their children and to seek medical advice promptly if their child shows any signs of illness after consumption. Consumers can also contact retailers or points of purchase for further information. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to infant health, trusted baby formula brands and Singapore’s strict food safety regulations.