The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has announced a significant expansion of the Nestlé infant recall in the UAE as of January 15, 2026. Following an initial alert earlier this month, authorities have now included additional batches of S26 AR GOLD formula, which is used specifically under medical supervision. This precautionary measure was triggered by global reports of Bacillus cereus traces in a raw material (ARA oil) supplied by a third party. While no illnesses have been confirmed in the Emirates so far, parents are urged to stop using affected tins immediately and verify their batch numbers via official digital tools.
Affected Products and Batch Numbers (Updated Jan 2026)
The Nestlé infant recall now encompasses several product lines. The newest addition, S26 AR GOLD, specifically concerns the following batch numbers:
- 5185080661
- 5271080661
- 5125080661
Previously recalled products (announced Jan 7, 2026) include specific batches of NAN Comfort 1, NAN OPTIPRO 1, NAN SUPREME PRO (Stages 1, 2, and 3), S-26 Ultima (Stages 1, 2, and 3), and Alfamino.
Understanding the Risk: Bacillus cereus and Cereulide
The core reason for the Nestlé infant recall is a quality issue with an ingredient supplied by an external provider. Testing revealed potential contamination with Bacillus cereus, a bacterium capable of producing the heat-stable toxin cereulide.
Unlike many common bacteria, cereulide cannot be destroyed by boiling water during formula preparation. If consumed, it can cause foodborne illness, which is particularly concerning for infants with developing digestive systems. The EDE and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment are working together to ensure these batches are removed from all retail shelves and e-commerce platforms like Amazon.ae and Noon.
Symptoms to Monitor in Infants
Health officials advise parents who may have used products from the Nestlé infant recall to watch for the following symptoms, which typically appear within 30 minutes to 6 hours of feeding:
- Acute vomiting and nausea
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Unusual lethargy or diarrhea
If your child shows these signs, contact your pediatrician immediately and report the incident to the EDE via email at pv@ede.gov.ae.
How to Get a Refund or Replacement in the UAE
Nestlé MENA has established dedicated channels to support families. You do not necessarily need a physical receipt if you have the tin or a clear photo of the batch number.
| Action | Channel |
| Verify Batch | Use the “Batch Code Verification Tool” on the Nestlé MENA website. |
| WhatsApp Support | Message +971 4 810 0000 for direct assistance. |
| Physical Return | Return affected tins to your local pharmacy or supermarket for an immediate refund. |
| Online Claims | Access the dedicated portal to initiate a courier-led replacement. |
This expansion of the Nestlé infant recall highlights the UAE’s proactive approach to food safety and its commitment to “Zero Government Bureaucracy” by providing instant digital verification tools for consumers.
