a2 Milk Company (“a2MC”) has voluntarily recalled three specific batches of imported a2 Platinum Premium USA labeled infant formula (0-12 months) because they were contaminated with cereulide.
Cereulid is a thermostable toxin produced by some strains of the bacteria Bacillus cereus. Illness is caused by eating food contaminated with toxins, and cooking baby formula in hot water does not remove the toxins.
Symptoms generally occur within 30 minutes to 6 hours after ingestion, with gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting appearing most often and usually disappearing on their own within 24 hours. Infants are at greater risk because their immune systems are developing and they may experience complications such as dehydration, requiring medical attention.
The batch numbers and “Use By” dates for the recalled products are listed below and marked on the bottom of each can. a2 Platinum Premium Infant Formula 0-12 Months Milk Based Powder with Iron is sold in 31.7 ounce cans with one of the following batch number and expiration date combinations:
Batch 2210269454 Use By: July 15, 2026
Batch 2210324609 Use By: January 21, 2027
Batch 2210321712 Use By: January 15, 2027
The product was distributed nationwide through the a2MC website, Amazon and Meijer stores as part of Operation Fly Formula. Import rights expired on December 31, 2025, and the product was discontinued and removed from sale before the recall began. The total number of units across the three batches was 63,078, of which approximately 16,428 units were sold to consumers.
No confirmed cases of illness or damage have been reported.
The recall was initiated by a2MC after cereulide was detected through further testing of the product conducted in accordance with new guidance issued by the New Zealand Food Regulatory Authority. The source of cereulide is believed to be an ingredient in the product.
Consumers who have purchased the product in question are requested to immediately stop using the product, discard it immediately, or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. If your baby develops any of the symptoms described above, contact your health care provider right away. To report a medical condition or side effect to FDA:
- Report product issues via: Smart Hubor
- Complete and submit your Medwatch report online. www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htmOr, by regular mail or fax: Download the form at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete the preaddressed form and mail it to the address or fax it to 800-FDA-0178.
