A further baby formula product has been removed from retail shelves in South Africa after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) issued a safety recall linked to contamination concerns.

In a statement, the regulator cautioned consumers about two infant nutrition products manufactured by Nutricia. The affected items are Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) and Aptajunior Nutribiotik 3 (800g).

The formula products were sold nationwide through major pharmacy chains, including Dis-Chem and Clicks Group.

The NCC said the recall followed a notification from Nutricia Southern Africa regarding the two products. According to the regulator, 2,989 units have been identified as part of the affected batches.

The products were distributed across the country by United Pharmaceutical Distributors and have been available in stores since August 2025.

Nutricia Southern Africa indicated that the recall was initiated after discovering that a raw ingredient used in production may contain traces of a toxin known as Cereulide.

The NCC explained that high exposure to cereulide can trigger symptoms including nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps.

Although the impacted products were mainly sold within South Africa, the manufacturer confirmed that certain batches were also exported to neighbouring countries.

The commission added that it is monitoring the recall process to ensure the company complies with the necessary requirements under consumer protection legislation.

Consumers who bought the affected formula are encouraged to contact Nutricia through its website or customer service channels for further guidance.

Second infant formula recall this year

This marks the second baby formula recall in South Africa in 2026.

In January, the NCC also announced the recall of NAN Special Pro HA 0‑12 6 x 800g produced by Nestlé.

The recalled product was manufactured on 15 June 2025 and carries an expiry date of 15 December 2026. It can be identified by batch number 51660742F3.

The formula had been distributed through retailers and distributors across South Africa, with some stock exported to Namibia and Eswatini.

According to the NCC, the recall was issued due to the possible presence of cereulide – the same toxin cited in the Nutricia recall.

The regulator noted that the product has an estimated shelf life of around 18 months.

Nestlé said it initiated the recall after detecting a quality concern linked to an ingredient supplied by one of its major suppliers. The company has since begun testing all arachidonic acid oils and related mixtures used in the manufacture of infant nutrition products.

Despite the precautionary action, Nestlé said no illnesses associated with the recalled formula have been reported.

The NCC has advised consumers who purchased the affected NAN Special Pro HA 800g formula to stop using it immediately and return it to the store where it was bought.

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