Nestlé Chile begins local infant formula production at Cancura plant

USA – Nestlé Chile has commenced local production of infant formula at its Cancura plant in Osorno, making Chile the third Latin American country to manufacture these formulas after Mexico and Brazil. 

The initiative, reported by the company, reinforces Nestlé’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic development in the dairy industry. 

Rodrigo Camacho, executive president of Nestlé Chile, described the move as a strategic step for the company’s growth and its long-term vision for the sector. 

“This investment allows us to strengthen our contribution to the national dairy industry while ensuring that families have access to high-quality infant nutrition,” he stated.

The production of infant formula under the Nidal brand began with Nidal 3 in April 2024, followed by Nidal 1 in August. 

The latter is produced specifically for the National Complementary Feeding Program (PNAC), a government initiative overseen by the Ministry of Health. 

Through this program, the formulas are distributed nationwide via public clinics and hospitals, benefiting approximately 30,000 babies each month. 

According to Nestlé, the investment in local production, which exceeds one million dollars, included the introduction of a new production line, technological enhancements, and modifications to the packaging system. 

These improvements have allowed for stricter quality control at every stage of production, ensuring that the highest safety and nutritional standards are met.

The infant formula is made from fresh milk supplied by local producers in southern Chile, with whom Nestlé has built strong partnerships over the years. 

A report by the company highlighted its efforts to support farmers in transitioning to regenerative agriculture, which aims to enhance environmental sustainability while fostering economic growth in rural communities. 

Additionally, the shift to local production has resulted in a reduced carbon footprint, as it minimizes the need for long-distance transportation of these products.

The Cancura plant, which was inaugurated in 2012, has earned recognition as one of the most modern facilities in the national dairy industry. 

It currently employs 300 workers and has an annual production capacity of 30,000 tons of powdered milk. 

The facility’s expansion into infant formula manufacturing strengthens its role as a key driver of economic and social development in the region. 

A Nestlé representative emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “By producing infant formula in Chile, we are not only enhancing local industry but also ensuring a more sustainable supply chain that benefits both consumers and producers.”

Nestlé Chile’s decision to manufacture Nidal infant formula domestically reflects its long-term strategy to provide innovative and accessible nutrition solutions. 

As the company continues to invest in technology and sustainability initiatives, the expansion at Cancura marks a significant step toward strengthening Chile’s dairy sector while addressing the growing demand for high-quality infant nutrition.