Specific batches of SMA infant formula and follow-on formula have been recalled due to the possible presence of a food poisoning toxin, according to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).

Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, Dr Michelle Moynihan said the FSAI was notified by Nestlé that it was “undertaking a voluntary recall of specific batches of its SMA infant formula and follow on formula."

 She explained that the recall was due to “the potential presence of cereulide, which is a toxin that's produced by some strains of a bacteria known as Bacillus cereus.”

Dr Moynihan stressed that the recall is precautionary, saying it is “being undertaken by them in the interests of public health."

She also reassured parents that “there's been no reports of illness to date associated with this."

When consumed, the toxin can cause food poisoning. 

“Onset of illness can occur within about five hours of consuming affected product, and it can cause nausea and severe vomiting,” she said, adding that it “usually runs its course within about six to twenty four hours."

A mother bottle feeding a baby boy in March 2012. Picture by: Cultura Creative RF / Alamy Stock Photo

Parents and caregivers are being advised to stop using affected products immediately. 

“If you have the affected batches, stop giving them immediately to your infant or young child this morning and find an alternative,” Dr Moynihan said.

She also confirmed that the products have been removed from sale, stating that they were “being removed from supermarket shelves yesterday” and that it is “unlikely you're going to buy these if you haven't bought them already."

Details of the affected batch numbers and expiry dates are available on the FSAI and Nestlé websites.

She also reassured parents that this would be a “short-lived illness," and not fatal.

“It will obviously be distressing for parents or caregivers and for the infant or young child themselves. But it is relatively short lived and we have no reports of illness to date,” she added.