French Authorities Launch Investigations Into Tragic Infant Deaths
French authorities have opened criminal investigations following the deaths of two infants allegedly linked to recalled baby formula products made by Nestlé. The cases have raised serious concerns about food safety and quality controls in infant nutrition.
The investigations were launched in Bordeaux and Angers. Both cases involve newborns who were reportedly fed baby formula that was later recalled. The recalls were initiated earlier this month due to fears of bacterial contamination.
In Bordeaux, prosecutors are investigating the death of a newborn who died on January 8. The infant had been fed Guigoz brand baby formula between January 5 and January 7. Guigoz is owned by Nestlé.
Authorities are examining whether contaminated formula played a role in the child’s death. Medical reports and laboratory tests are being reviewed as part of the inquiry.
A second investigation is underway in Angers. It concerns the death of a 27-day-old baby girl in December. The infant’s mother told authorities she had used one of the recalled formula products.
Prosecutors have stressed caution. They said no direct causal link has yet been proven between the formula and the deaths.
Contamination Linked to Dangerous Bacteria
Nestlé issued a worldwide recall in early January. The company said the decision was preventive and voluntary. The recall covers specific batches of SMA, Guigoz, and Nidal baby formulas.
The action followed the detection of contamination with Bacillus cereus. This bacterium can produce a toxin called cereulide. Health agencies warn that cereulide can be extremely dangerous for infants.
The toxin can cause rapid food poisoning. Symptoms usually appear within 30 minutes to six hours after consumption. Common signs include vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
In severe cases, the toxin may lead to liver damage or neurological complications. Health experts also warn that cereulide is heat-resistant. Boiling water does not destroy it.
French and UK health authorities have issued alerts about the risks. Parents were urged to stop using the affected products immediately.
Investigators believe the contamination may have originated from a single raw material supplier. Authorities are now tracing supply chains to identify how the bacteria entered the production process.
Nestlé Responds as Public Concern Grows
Nestlé has said the safety of babies is its top priority. The company stated that it is fully cooperating with French authorities. It has also committed to transparency throughout the investigation.
In a statement, Nestlé described the recall as a precautionary measure. The company said it acted as soon as the contamination risk was identified.
Angers prosecutor Eric Bouillard said the contamination theory is being taken seriously. However, he added that it is too early to draw conclusions.
“This is a serious lead,” he said. “But it is far too early to say it is the main one.”
Consumer groups have called for stronger oversight. They are demanding tighter safety checks in baby food manufacturing.
The cases have shocked parents across Europe. Many are questioning how such contamination could occur in products designed for newborns.
As investigations continue, health officials urge parents to follow recall notices closely. Anyone who used the affected formulas is advised to seek medical guidance.
The outcome of the probes could have major implications for food safety regulations. It could also impact trust in global baby nutrition brands.
