Lactalis Recalls Six Batches of Picot Infant Formula Across 19 Countries Due to Potential Cereulide Contamination

On January 21, 2026, Lactalis announced a precautionary recall of six batches of its Picot infant formula in France and 18 other countries amid concerns of cereulide contamination, a bacterial toxin known to cause diarrhea and vomiting. The affected products include 'Picot nutrition quotidienne 1er âge' in 400, 800, and 850-gram packages, 'Picot nutrition quotidienne 2e âge' in 800 and 850-gram servings, and 'Picot AR 2e âge' in 800 grams, all widely available in pharmacies and supermarkets.

The recall follows a warning issued by a French professional association for infant nutrition and arises after initial tests appeared compliant but further analyses detected cereulide presence in reconstituted products. Lactalis underscored that no complaints or illness reports connected to these formulas have reached French authorities to date but acknowledged the recall might cause parental concern.

Lactalis traced the contamination to an international supplier of Arachidonic Acid (ARA), an omega-6 fatty acid added to some infant formulas. The extensive recall affects countries including Spain, various Latin American nations, and France itself.

This action comes amid a series of recent dairy sector recalls worldwide due to similar safety issues. Notably, on January 6, 2026, numerous Nestlé subsidiaries across Europe—including Germany, Italy, Sweden, and France—voluntarily recalled batches of infant formula due to analogous contamination fears. Further, Singapore's Food Agency also announced a recall of Dumex infant formula linked to cereulide contamination.

These recalls highlight ongoing vigilance in the infant nutrition market concerning food safety risks associated with bacterial toxins. Lactalis emphasized the precautionary nature of the recall to ensure maximum consumer safety.

In summary, the recall reflects ongoing industry challenges to maintain stringent safety standards for infant nutrition products globally. Authorities and manufacturers remain alert to protect infants from potential health hazards related to contaminated dairy-based formulas.