The safety of baby food is once again at the center of attention for Spanish families. After several infants were hospitalized with acute symptoms, authorities launched a large-scale inspection of popular infant formula brands. The issue concerns not only the health of the most vulnerable, but also trust in the quality control system for products that appear daily on the tables of thousands of families across the country.
In recent weeks, cases of sudden vomiting attacks in infants who consumed specific batches of powdered milk formula have been reported in various regions of Spain. Five babies ended up in the hospital, but fortunately, all have since been discharged home. Nevertheless, parents remain alarmed: these are products that are supposed to be as safe as possible for newborns and children under six months old.
Causes for concern
The first suspicions arose after the discovery of the toxin cereulide—produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus—in several batches of baby formula. This toxin is highly heat-resistant and can cause severe nausea and vomiting within just half an hour after eating. The investigation revealed that a possible source of contamination was a component—arachidonic acid oil (ARA)—which is widely used in baby formula production.
The distribution of affected products turned out to be significant: batches were sold not only in Spain, but also in other European countries. This prompted the launch of a food alert system and a mass recall of products from store shelves. Parents are advised to immediately stop using all formulas subject to the recall and to closely monitor their infants’ condition, especially if symptoms of digestive upset appear.
Authorities’ response
Spanish health authorities have stepped up monitoring of the situation and established rapid communication with regional agencies. Officials emphasize that, for now, there is no laboratory confirmation of a link between the toxin and the hospitalizations; however, the investigation is ongoing. According to Health Ministry representatives, establishing a direct causal link is challenging: the products are widely distributed, and the levels of toxins found in children’s tests did not exceed dangerous thresholds.
Nevertheless, experts warn that infants, especially those under six months old, are most at risk of complications from food poisoning. Even in mild cases, serious consequences such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance are possible. European agencies are also monitoring the situation: similar incidents have been reported in other countries, but most babies recovered quickly.
Advice for parents
While the investigation is ongoing, parents are advised to exercise the utmost caution. If your child experiences vomiting or diarrhea after consuming formula from the recalled batches, seek medical attention immediately. In case of severe symptoms—such as dehydration or repeated vomiting—go to the emergency room without delay. It is important to remember that in infants, such conditions can develop rapidly, regardless of the underlying cause.
The list of recalled products includes well-known brands such as Babybio Caprea 1, Babybio Optima 1, NIDINA 1, Almirón Advance 1 and 2, Almirón Profutura 1 and 2, Almirón AR 2, Bledina 1, as well as certain batches of Damira. National food safety authorities continue to issue updates and guidance for parents and healthcare professionals.
Background and similar cases
In recent years, Europe has already faced incidents related to baby food safety. A few years ago, France reported a major recall of infant formula due to the risk of bacterial contamination, which led to stricter control standards. Germany and Italy also saw cases in which certain batches of baby products were withdrawn over suspected contamination. Each such episode triggers concerns among parents and prompts a review of quality control procedures at every stage of production and distribution.
