Paris prosecutors have started a criminal investigation. It targets five big baby formula companies. The companies are accused of bad actions. This happened after products were found with a dangerous toxin. Many products were recalled from over 60 countries. In the UK, 36 babies got sick.
The main problem is a toxin called cereulide. This toxin causes bad stomach problems. It causes a lot of vomiting and stomach pain. Health experts say the toxin is not destroyed by heat. So, normal ways of making baby milk will not remove it. They are trying to find out how the bad ingredients got into the milk. They also want to know if the companies kept the products safe.
The contamination seems to come from arachidonic acid (ARA) oil. This is an ingredient often added to baby formula. It helps babies grow. It is thought the bad ARA oil came from a company in Wuhan, China. This company is called Cabio Biotech. The UK has said this company is not used anymore. However, its past connection is being looked at closely.
The French investigation includes major companies. Nestle, Lactalis, and Danone are part of it. Babybio and La Marque en moins are also included. Many parents complained their children vomited. This led to the investigation. These complaints show the real health risks for babies. This has worried parents everywhere.
Many baby formulas have been taken off shelves. This was done to be safe. This has caused worry for families. The UK's food agency is also working on this. Other countries are working together. They want to know how widespread the problem is.
China's market regulator has taken action. Chinese baby formula makers must test for cereulide. This shows they want to avoid similar problems. These investigations could have big results. Companies might face legal problems. The baby formula industry will likely have more rules. More information is expected soon.