European health agencies have concluded that the risk from the Europe-wide baby formula recall is now low. A joint assessment by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Food Safety Authority found the potential health impact to be low to moderate, varying by child's age.
Most affected children experienced mild gastrointestinal symptoms and have since recovered. Some infants, particularly those under six months, were hospitalized due to dehydration. Investigations were complicated by surveillance limitations and difficulties in analyzing samples for cereulide toxin. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea closely mimic common viral infections.
Across Europe, at least 26 babies were hospitalized with suspected intoxication from recalled formula; all have been discharged. Countries reporting cases include Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Spain, and the United Kingdom. France is investigating potential links between the formula and three infant deaths, though no confirmation exists.
The contamination was traced to the bacteria Bacillus cereus in arachidonic acid oil from a single Chinese supplier. Investigations into the contamination source are ongoing in seven European countries. French authorities have opened a probe into five dairy firms for potential criminal liability.