The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency, Anvisa, has ordered the recall of ten batches of the Alfamino 400g infant formula produced by Nestlé Brazil Ltda., due to the discovery of selenium and iodine levels that exceed legal safety limits. This decision was officially published in the latest edition of the Diário Oficial da União through Resolution-RE No. 521, which includes a thorough ban on the sale, distribution, importation, and advertising of affected batches.

Anvisa highlighted that the formula's analysis revealed selenium levels of 31.1 micrograms per 100 kcal and iodine levels of 175.7 micrograms per 100 kcal, both surpassing the permitted thresholds for infant formulas intended for infants and children with specific dietary needs. The agency has identified this violation as a breach of health regulations, specifically the Decree-Law No. 986/1969, indicating serious safety concerns regarding nutrition for vulnerable populations.

The implications of this decision are significant, as it reflects rigorous enforcement of food safety standards in Brazil, ensuring the health of infants who require specialized nutrition. The action also underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in maintaining product safety and the potential risks posed by dietary supplements that do not adhere to established health guidelines. The recall could influence public trust in Nestlé’s products and spark further scrutiny of food safety regulations in the infant formula sector.