French firm Lactalis latest to recall baby formula amid contamination scare
French dairy giant Lactalis has become the latest company to recall baby formula products amid a growing contamination scare, raising fresh concerns over infant food safety and regulatory oversight across Europe.
The recall follows the detection of potential bacterial contamination during routine quality checks, according to company and regulatory statements released on Tuesday. While Lactalis did not immediately specify the full scope of affected batches, authorities said the recall applies to several infant formula products distributed in multiple countries.
Lactalis, one of the world’s largest dairy producers, said the move was precautionary and aimed at protecting consumer safety. The company urged parents and caregivers not to use the recalled products and to return them to points of purchase for refunds. No illnesses linked to the products have been officially confirmed so far.
Health agencies warned that contamination in baby formula, even at low levels, can pose serious risks to infants, whose immune systems are still developing. Certain bacteria, including Salmonella and Cronobacter, can lead to severe infections, particularly in newborns and premature babies.
This latest recall adds to mounting pressure on infant formula manufacturers, as regulators intensify scrutiny following a series of high-profile contamination incidents in recent years. Lactalis itself has faced recalls in the past, including a major Salmonella outbreak several years ago that led to widespread product withdrawals and legal action.
French food safety authorities said they are working closely with the company to trace distribution channels and ensure affected products are swiftly removed from shelves. Other European regulators are also monitoring the situation, as some of the recalled formula may have been exported outside France.
Consumer advocacy groups have called for greater transparency and stricter controls, arguing that repeated recalls highlight weaknesses in manufacturing and monitoring systems. “Parents need absolute confidence that infant formula meets the highest safety standards,” one group said in a statement.
Lactalis said it is reviewing its production processes and has launched an internal investigation to identify the source of the contamination. The company added that additional testing has been implemented across its facilities as a preventive measure.
As authorities continue their investigations, parents are being advised to check product labels and batch numbers carefully and to consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns. The recall is expected to keep infant food safety firmly in focus, as regulators and manufacturers face renewed demands to prevent future incidents.
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