Another baby formula product has been pulled from shelves in South Africa after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) issued a recall notice due to contamination concerns.
In a statement, the commission warned consumers about the recall of two products manufactured by Nutricia: Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) and Aptajunior Nutribiotik 3 (800g).
The affected batches were distributed nationally and sold through major pharmacy retailers, including Dis-Chem and Clicks Group.
“The National Consumer Commission (NCC) alerts consumers of the recall of Nutricia Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) and Nutricia Aptajunior Nutribiotik 3 (800g) products, as notified by Nutricia Southern Africa,” the commission said.
According to the NCC, the manufacturer informed the regulator that 2,989 units are affected by the recall. The products were distributed nationally by United Pharmaceutical Distributors and have been available on shelves since August 2025.
Nutricia Southern Africa said the recall was triggered after it discovered that a raw material used in the manufacturing process could contain traces of a toxin.
“Cereulide is a toxin that, at high levels of exposure, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps,” the commission added.
While the affected products were sold across South Africa, Nutricia also confirmed that some batches were exported to neighbouring countries.
The commission noted that it is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the company follows the required procedures under consumer protection laws.
Consumers who may have purchased the affected formula products are encouraged to contact Nutricia for further information through its website or customer care channels.
The latest recall is the second time baby formula has been pulled from shelves in South Africa this year.
In January, the NCC also issued a recall for the “NAN Special Pro HA 0-12 6 x 800g” infant formula produced by Nestlé.
The recalled Nestlé formula was manufactured on 15 June 2025 and carries an expiry date of 15 December 2026.
It is identified by batch number 51660742F3 and was distributed through major retailers and distributors across South Africa, with some stock also exported to Namibia and Eswatini.
According to the NCC, the recall was issued because of the potential presence of cereulide, the same toxin identified in the Nutricia recall.
“The NAN infant formula has a lifespan of approximately 18 months,” the commission noted.
Nestlé said the recall was initiated after identifying a quality issue linked to an ingredient supplied by a major supplier.
The company added that it has begun testing all arachidonic acid oils and related mixtures used in the production of affected infant nutrition products.
Despite the precautionary recall, the company indicated that no illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected items.
The NCC has urged South African consumers who purchased the recalled NAN Special Pro HA 800g product to stop using it and return it to the place of purchase.
The latest recall of products manufactured by Nutricia can be viewed below.
Nutribiotik formulas recalled
Nestlé formula recalled in January
