Hong Kong recalls more Aptamil infant formula over possible bacterial toxin

The Centre for Food Safety has ordered a precautionary recall of an additional batch of Aptamil Profutura DUO Advance 1 powdered infant formula after Europe linked it to potential contamination with cereulide toxin from Bacillus cereus.

The Centre for Food Safety is closely monitoring a global recall of certain Aptamil powdered infant and young children formula due to the possible presence of cereulide, a heat-stable toxin produced by Bacillus cereus in raw materials.  

Following an earlier European announcement, the CFS confirmed a local trader had imported and sold one affected batch in Hong Kong. 

Latest investigations revealed the same distributor, HK Wukong Trading Limited, had also imported and distributed another affected batch.  

The distributor has halted sales, removed the product from shelves, and begun a precautionary recall as instructed by the CFS. 

The affected product is Aptamil Profutura DUO Advance 1 (800 g), made in Germany, with a use-by date of April 21, 2027. The importer brought in 390 cans (65 boxes).  

The CFS has directed the importer, distributor, and retailers to stop sales, withdraw the product, and carry out the recall. Consumers can contact the distributor's hotline at 6426 1511 during office hours for recall inquiries.  

Bacillus cereus occurs naturally in the environment, and poor hygiene during processing or storage can allow it to produce toxins like cereulide, which may cause vomiting and diarrhea if consumed in excessive amounts.  

The CFS advised parents not to feed the affected batch to infants or young children and to seek medical help if any child feels unwell after consuming it. The trade must immediately stop using or selling the product.  

Surveillance of infant formula will continue, with ongoing monitoring of the recall to protect food safety. The CFS has notified the trade and relevant departments and will take further action as needed.