China's General Administration of Customs Photo:VCG

The General Administration of Customs (GAC) issued a consumer alert on Thursday, calling on consumers to immediate cease the use of infant formula by French brand Picot, after the latter launched a recall of its products, according to state broadcaster CCTV News.

According to the alert, the French dairy company Lactalis recently announced a recall of multiple batches of Picot brand infant formula in 18 countries and regions, including China, due to the possible presence of toxin produced by bacillus cereus.

To date, no import records of Picot brand infant formula have been found in China, the GAC said. 

The Department of Import and Export Food Safety of the GAC urges consumers to immediately stop using any affected products that may have been obtained through personal carrying or purchasing via overseas agents. 

Consumers are also advised to closely monitor follow-up recall updates from Lactalis and make safe, rational consumption choices.

French dairy giant Lactalis announced the recall on Wednesday, according to Xinhua News Agency.

The substance can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

In a statement released Wednesday and cited by French media, the company said the decision followed alerts issued by the French Professional Association for Infant Nutrition. 

Global Times