Danone Joins Infant Formula Recall Amid Parental Anxiety Over Contamination

On January 23, 2026, Danone announced a targeted recall of specific infant milk product batches due to potential contamination by Bacillus cereus, joining Nestlé and Lactalis in taking precautionary measures. This follows investigations into the deaths of two infants who consumed Nestlé’s recalled formula, although no confirmed causal link has been established. Danone emphasized its rigorous commitment to food safety and full compliance with regulatory standards.

Health Minister Stéphanie Rist urged parents using powdered infant milk to check the Rappel Conso website for any recalls and to segregate any suspect products. The contamination issue is traced to Jiabiyou, a Chinese supplier of an essential fatty acid, arachidonic acid, used by multiple brands including Danone and Nestlé, believed to be contaminated with cereulide toxin produced by Bacillus cereus.

Parents express mounting anxiety and frustration amid the ongoing recalls. A poignant example is Marie, whose four-month-old daughter experienced severe digestive symptoms after consuming a recalled Guigoz formula, despite verifying the batch number. She sought medical care after vomiting and diarrhea worsened, eventually deciding to switch brands for safety, despite government assurances that contaminated lots have been removed.

Danone’s recall aims to reassure healthcare professionals and parents regarding the safety and quality of their infant nutrition products. The situation continues to evolve as authorities monitor for further risks and affected products.