The National Consumer Commission has recalled certain Aptamil and Aptajunior baby formula products over concerns that a raw material used in production may contain traces of a toxin. Picture Credit: now.tufts.edu
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – South African retailers have pulled another baby formula from their shelves after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) issued a recall notice over potential contamination.
In a statement released on 6 March 2026, the commission warned about the recall of two products manufactured by Nutricia: Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) and Aptajunior Nutribiotik 3 (800g).
The NCC said the recall affects 2,989 units distributed nationally through United Pharmaceutical Distributors and sold at major pharmacy retailers including Dis-Chem and Clicks since August 2025.
“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 regulator, the manufacturer reported that a raw material used during production may contain traces of cereulide, a toxin which at high levels of exposure can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps.
While the products were sold across South Africa, some batches were also exported to neighbouring countries including Botswana and Namibia.
The NCC said it is closely monitoring the recall process to ensure that the company complies with the requirements of the Consumer Protection Act and that consumer safety is prioritised.
Consumers who may have purchased the affected products are encouraged to contact Nutricia Southern Africa through its website or customer care channels for further information.
Affected batches: The following products are affected by the recall:
- Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) – Batch number 20260911, expiry date 11 September 2026
- Aptamil Nutribiotik 2 (800g) – Batch number 20261209, expiry date 9 December 2026
- Aptajunior Nutribiotik 3 (800g) – Batch number 20261209, expiry date 9 December 2026
The latest recall marks the second time infant formula has been removed from shelves for this year.
In January, the NCC also issued a recall for NAN Special Pro HA 0-12 infant formula (6 x 800g) produced by Nestlé.
The product was manufactured on 15 June 2025, carries an expiry date of 15 December 2026, and can be identified by batch number 51660742F3. The formula was distributed through major retailers across South Africa, with some exported to Namibia and Eswatini.
According to the NCC, that recall was also linked to the potential presence of cereulide.
Nestlé said the recall was initiated after identifying a quality issue associated with an ingredient supplied by a major supplier. The company added that it had begun testing all arachidonic acid oils and related mixtures used in affected infant nutrition products.
Despite the precautionary recall, the company indicated that no illnesses had been reported in connection with the product.
The NCC has urged consumers who purchased the recalled Nestlé formula to stop using it immediately and return it to the place of purchase.
