Infant formula that killed three babies linked to Chinese ingredients; EU tightens inspections

[Financial News] The contamination of infant formula that led to the deaths of three babies in Europe has been traced to ingredients sourced from China, prompting the European Union (EU) to tighten border inspections.
According to Agence France-Presse (AFP) and other outlets on the 25th (local time), the contamination was first detected in December last year.
Authorities believe that arachidonic acid (ARA) oil supplied by a Chinese company and used as an ingredient in the formula was contaminated with cereulide toxin. Cereulide toxin is a food poisoning toxin that can cause vomiting and other symptoms.
Officials have not officially named the Chinese supplier, but it is reported to be Cabio Biotech (Wuhan).
In response, major food companies headquartered in Europe, including Nestlé, Danone and Lactalis Group, have carried out recalls in more than 60 countries worldwide, including several EU member states.
So far, three infants have died, and they are believed to have consumed formula that was later recalled in France.
The EU has therefore decided to strengthen quarantine controls by allowing imports of ARA oil from China to clear customs only if accompanied by a certificate proving that no cereulide toxin is present. For shipments that have already left China for Europe by sea, authorities will physically inspect half of the cargo volume over the next two months.
Asked about the role of Cabio Biotech (Wuhan) in the recall, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China (Chinese Foreign Ministry) said, "The Chinese government takes food safety extremely seriously" and added, "We will continue to take strong measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of consumers."
Meanwhile, two EU agencies concluded last week that the current risk of exposure to cereulide toxin in Europe is low.
newssu@fnnews.com Kim Su-yeon Reporter