PRETORIA — The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a recall for a specific batch of NAN Special Pro HA Infant Formula (0–12 months) after a potential food safety risk was identified.

In a notice dated 7 January 2026, the NCC said the affected product is NAN Special Pro HA 800g, batch number 51660742F3, which was produced in June 2025 and distributed through major retailers and distributors across South Africa. The product was also exported to Namibia and Eswatini, according to the commission.

The recall follows the identification of a potential presence of cereulide, a toxin produced by Bacillus cereus, which the NCC said constitutes a food safety concern. The NAN infant formula has an estimated shelf life of about 18 months.

Consumers who have the affected product have been urged to return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. The NCC said it will continue to monitor the matter and engage with the supplier to ensure compliance with food safety requirements.

About Cereulide

Cereulide (say: seh-ROO-uh-lide) is a poison (toxin) that can be made by a type of bacteria called Bacillus cereus when it grows in food.

Here’s what readers should know:

• It’s not the bacteria itself — it’s the toxin it can produce. Even if the bacteria later dies, the toxin may still be there.
• It can affect the stomach and intestines. Exposure is commonly linked to nausea and vomiting, and sometimes stomach cramps and diarrhoea.
• Heat may not remove the risk. Some toxins can be hard to destroy by normal cooking or reheating, which is why recalls are taken seriously.
• Infants are more vulnerable. Babies can get dehydrated faster and may become sick more quickly than adults, so caregivers should act fast if they suspect an issue.

What to do: If you have the recalled batch, stop using it and return it for a refund. If an infant becomes unwell (especially repeated vomiting), seek medical help immediately.

-The VIP Team 

-NCC