Hong Kong authorities have discovered toxins in four batches of milk powder that were recalled by Nestlé, a multinational food and beverage company. The recall was initiated after the company detected high levels of a toxin called ethylene oxide in the products. The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) in Hong Kong conducted tests on the recalled batches and confirmed the presence of the toxin.
The affected products include two batches of Nestlé’s NAN HA 1 and two batches of Nestlé’s NAN HA 2, which are infant formula products. The CFS has warned that consuming products contaminated with ethylene oxide can pose health risks, particularly to infants and young children. Ethylene oxide is a known carcinogen and can cause damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and liver.
The recall was first announced by Nestlé on August 2, after the company detected high levels of ethylene oxide in the products during routine testing. The company stated that the contamination was due to a supplier issue and that it was taking immediate action to rectify the situation. The CFS was notified of the recall and subsequently conducted its own tests to confirm the presence of the toxin.
The CFS has advised parents and caregivers to stop using the affected products immediately and to return them to the place of purchase for a refund. The authority has also warned that any products that have been consumed should not cause immediate harm, but long-term consumption could pose health risks. The CFS is working closely with Nestlé to ensure that all affected products are removed from the market and that the company takes steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Nestlé has apologized for the incident and has stated that it is taking the situation very seriously. The company has also set up a hotline for parents and caregivers to contact if they have any concerns or questions. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of infant formula products in Hong Kong, and the CFS has assured the public that it is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of food products in the territory. The authority has also urged parents and caregivers to be vigilant and to check the packaging of infant formula products for any signs of tampering or contamination.