Nestlé Philippines vows to assist families amid infant formula recall
Nestlé Philippines said that it is working with the Food and Drug Administration to address the reported quality concerns regarding several batches of its two infant formula products.
In a statement published by GMA News, the food and beverage company vowed to help families who may have been affected by the quality issue of Nan Optipro and Nankid Optipro infant formula products due to an ingredient provided by a leading supplier.
"We understand the concern and disruption this may be causing parents and caregivers, and we are here to support them. Our priority is to address their immediate needs and provide assistance," it said.
"This voluntary recall was initiated out of an abundance of caution, prompted by the detection of very low levels of a substance in an ingredient from a global supplier."
Meanwhile, Nestlé clarified that health authorities have not established specific food safety standards for this substance, as available scientific data remain inconclusive in directly linking exposure to health effects.
"In the absence of defined safety and regulatory limits, we acted on scientific recommendations to avoid exposure and to prioritize the well-being of infants and children, making the decision to recall in favor of strict safety measures," it explained.
Nestlé also addressed the FDA's statement regarding 18 reports involving health concerns observed in those who consumed the infant formula. The agency said that parents and caregivers saw vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other conditions.
The FDA, however, noted that the reports are subject to review.
"Determining whether any reported health issue is related to the affected product requires clear clinical evidence, which includes ruling out other possible causes such as common seasonal infections. We are working with the FDA to ensure that all reports are carefully reviewed and appropriately resolved," Nestlé said.
It further said it is expanding its consumer care teams to respond promptly to inquiries, which include product replacement for recalled products and access to teleconsultation services with healthcare professionals for medical-related questions.
Only a specific number of batches of the affected products is included in the recall. Nestlé has informed the distributors and retailers carrying these batches. They have been given instructions to remove the concerned products from their shelves.
If parents and caregivers have already purchased the products, they can check this website to see whether their items are included in the affected batches. The site gives specific instructions on how to find the batch code on the product packaging.
You may also contact Nestlé Philippines on Facebook, via email at consumer.services@ph.nestle.com, or their hotline (02-8898 0061) if you have a product included in the affected batches.