Prosecutors in Paris are investigating five baby formula companies, including Nestlé and Danone, following the recall of products contaminated with cronobacter.

Prosecutors in Paris have opened a criminal investigation against five baby formula manufacturing companies, including Nestlé, Danone, and Lactalis, in the context of product withdrawals suspected of being contaminated with cronobacter, a toxin that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. The investigation targets the crime of "endangering public health with dangerous goods," which can lead to penalties of up to seven years in prison.

The French Ministry of Health is also investigating three infant deaths related to these formulas. The withdrawals have affected products distributed in over 60 countries, and the source of contamination has been identified as a supplier of oil with arachidonic acid. The financial impact on the companies is significant, with Nestlé and Danone closely monitoring the situation, considering that the baby formula segment represents an important part of their revenues.