The Nestle baby formula recall UAE 2026 has been officially initiated by the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) following a global alert regarding bacterial contamination. In a swift, precautionary move on January 8, 2026, authorities moved to quarantine specific batches of infant formula after traces of Bacillus cereus were discovered in raw materials used at a production plant.
While Nestlé has clarified that this is a voluntary recall performed out of an “abundance of caution,” the potential presence of the cereulide toxin—which can lead to nausea and vomiting—has made this a high-priority safety event for families across the Middle East.
Is Your Tin Affected? The Recalled Product List
If you have purchased infant nutrition in the UAE recently, check the base of your tin immediately. The Nestle baby formula recall UAE 2026 specifically impacts limited batches of the following products:
- NAN Range: NAN Comfort 1, NAN Optipro 1, and NAN Supreme Pro (Stages 1, 2, and 3).
- S-26 Range: S-26 Ultima (Stages 1, 2, and 3).
- Specialty Formula: ALFAMINO.
Note: Only specific batch numbers are affected. Nestlé MENA has released a country-specific list for the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. If your batch code is not on the official list, the product is considered safe for consumption.
Understanding the Risk: What is Bacillus cereus?
The reason for the Nestlé baby formula recall UAE 2026 is the detection of Bacillus cereus, a bacterium that can produce a toxin called cereulide.
- Heat Stability: Unlike many common bacteria, cereulide is heat-resistant, meaning it may not be destroyed even if you use boiling water to prepare the formula.
- Symptoms: If a child consumes contaminated formula, symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to 6 hours and include acute vomiting, abdominal cramps, and nausea.
- Current Status: As of January 8, the EDE has confirmed that no illnesses or adverse events have been reported in the UAE.
What Should Parents Do Now?
If you find that your formula tin matches the affected batches, the Emirates Drug Establishment advises the following steps:
- Stop Use Immediately: Do not feed the affected formula to your baby.
- Contact Nestlé: Call the Nestlé Consumer Engagement Centre (the number is located on the tin) to arrange for a full refund or a product replacement.
- Medical Consultation: If your baby has already consumed the formula and is showing symptoms, contact your pediatrician immediately.
- Reporting: You can report any concerns or suspected cases to the EDE at pv@ede.gov.ae.
Ensuring Safety in the UAE
This recall is being managed in partnership with major retailers and online platforms to ensure all remaining stock is removed from shelves. This proactive approach to food security is a hallmark of the UAE’s regulatory system
