Story by Nyasha Makota
THE Government has placed all ports of entry on high alert following a global recall by Nestlé of a single batch of NAN Special Pro HA infant formula manufactured in Germany, as authorities move to prevent the product from entering Zimbabwe through unofficial channels.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has confirmed that the affected batch, which carries an expiry date of December 15, 2026, has not been distributed in Zimbabwe, but precautionary measures have been activated to safeguard public health.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Aspect Maunganidze, said government acted swiftly after receiving formal communication from Nestlé regarding the recall.
“The government received communication from Nestle in light of a recall from the global market of a single batch of NaN Special Pro HA. Of note is that this product has not been distributed in Zimbabwe. However, the ministry is on high alert in case the product finds its way into the country through unofficial means.
“We have ordered our counterparts at all port entries to be on high alert. Citizens also need to check the expiration date and batch number on any of these products to be safe,” Dr Maunganidze said.
Dr Maunganidze said the move reflects government’s proactive stance on food and consumer safety, citing previous interventions.
“This is not the first time the government has been proactive. In 2023, the government recalled a certain batch of Kambucha beverage and maize imported from Zambia, which were not fit for the local market,” he added.
Authorities have urged parents, caregivers and retailers to remain alert and to report any suspected presence of the affected product to health officials.
