Nestlé has issued a global recall on a batch of their baby formula products over concerns they may contain a toxin that causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain—which in extreme cases, can lead to death. 

The food and drink giant is recalling specific batches of its SMA infant and follow-on formula after discovering they were not safe to be fed to babies. 

The products, Nestlé said, could potentially contain cereulide - a potentially deadly toxin that can lead to the rapid onset on nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps. 

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) added the toxin is highly heat-resistant, meaning that it's unlikely to be destroyed by heating, boiling water, or when making the baby formula. 

Nestlé maintains that there has been no confirmed reports of illness linked with the products so far, but said it was recalling them 'out of an abundance of caution', adding that 'the safety and wellbeing of babies' is its 'absolute priority'. 

The recall notice continued: 'Consumers who may have these batches should not feed this product to their baby. 

'We sincerely apologise for any concern or inconvenience caused to parents, caregivers, and customers.'

Jane Rawling, The FSA's head of incidents, is urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant. 

'I want to reassure parents guardians and caregivers that we are taking urgent action, helping to ensure all the affected product is remove from sale as a precaution,' she said. 

'If you have have fed this product to your baby and have any concerns about potential health impact, you should seek advice from healthcare professionals by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111.'  

It is currently believed that no other Nestlé products are affected and the contamination was caused by an ingredient provided by one of its suppliers. 

Refunds will be issues to any customers affected.  

A full list of products and batch codes affected can be found on Nestlé's UK website, or through food.gov.uk.

Customers who are worried their baby formula may be contaminated are advised to look for the corresponding code on the base of the tin or box for powdered formulas.

For ready-to-feed formulas the batch code will be on the base of the outer box or the side or top of the container. 

Cereulide is a toxin produced by certain strains of the Bacillus cereus bacteria and can cause food-poisoning-like symptoms, which often develop quickly. 

The FSA states that even if your baby is not showing any signs of illness, it is imperative to stop using the affected product. 

In 2019, a student died from eating pasta contaminated with Bacillus cereus.