Baby formula recalled over bacteria contamination fears

Batches of two baby formulas have been recalled over the possible presence of a bacteria which can cause fever and diarrhoea.

Cronobacter sakazakii can also lead to sepsis or meningitis in severe cases.

The recall is for the Nutramigen stage 1 and stage 2 hypoallergenic formula powders.

Manufacturer Reckitt took the precaution after finding the bacteria in an "isolated overseas sample", it said.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says it is not aware of any cases of illness linked to the formulas.

Both of the formula powders are usually medically prescribed, but can also be bought without a prescription, according to the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA).

The batch codes are ZL3F7D for the stage 1 product and ZL3FAA and ZL3FDM for stage 2.

All recalled products have a best before date of 1 July 2025 and the pack size is 400g.

In the recall notice, Reckitt said no other batches have been affected and remain safe to use, as do other Nutramigen products.

The FSA warned affected customers to not feed the product to their babies and return it to the place of purchase.

It said symptoms of meningitis in infants include "poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice (yellow skin and whites of the eyes) and abnormal breaths and movements."

Stores and pharmacies have also been made aware of the recall.

Reckitt said it is conducting a thorough investigation.

The UKHSA told the BBC: "Through our surveillance systems, we are not aware of any cases linked to this product."

The incident comes after it was announced last month that a person in Scotland died from E. coli, following an outbreak of the bacterial infection in the UK linked to cheese. It is unclear if the death was caused by the food.

The BBC has contacted Reckitt for comment.