Shopkeepers Nationwide Warned Over Milk Sales

(JUBA) – The South Sudan National Bureau of Standards has ordered the immediate removal of a specific batch of Nestlé infant formula from all shops across the country.

The order follows the discovery of a harmful toxin in the Nestlé NAN Special Pro HA infant formula for babies aged zero to twelve months. Official records identify the affected batch as 51660742F3. This product was made in June 2025 and was meant to be sold until December 2026.

According to the Bureau, the milk powder contains a toxin called cereulide. This substance is produced by certain types of bacteria and cannot be removed or killed by boiling water or cooking.

The government has warned that infants who consume the contaminated formula could suffer from food poisoning and vomiting within six hours of being fed.

Honourable Gloria Nyoka Joseph Lasu, the Executive Director of the Bureau, signed the public notice on Monday. She said the product does not meet regional or international safety rules. The Bureau has told all shop owners and traders to stop selling the batch immediately. Anyone found selling the product after this warning could face fines or be held in custody.

The Bureau stated that this is part of a wider international recall that has affected more than twenty countries. The problem started with an ingredient from a supplier that went into various Nestlé baby products. Although no cases of illness have been reported in South Sudan yet, the authorities say they are taking these steps to protect the health of children.

Parents and carers who have the formula have been told to check the batch number on the bottom of the tin. If it matches the number in the alert, they should stop using it at once. They are encouraged to take the product back to the place where they bought it for a refund.

For those whose babies have already taken the milk, the Bureau suggests speaking to a doctor or health worker for advice. The Bureau office is located in the Kololo area of Juba, opposite the American Residence, and can be reached through their official phone lines for further information.