A sample of HiPP baby food contained rat poison in Austria. The contaminated product was a 190g jar of carrot and potato purée.
In response, HiPP recalled its entire range of jarred purées sold in Spar supermarkets across Austria. There are about 1,500 Spar shops affected by this recall. Authorities believe at least one more poisoned jar remains in circulation.
The recall is not due to any product or quality defect on HiPP’s part. Police confirmed that the tampered jar had not been consumed by the customer who reported it. The jars left HiPP’s facility in perfect condition, according to the company.
Two contaminated jars have also been seized in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Consumers are advised to look for damaged lids, missing safety seals, or unusual odours before using any HiPP products.
Symptoms of ingesting rat poison can include bleeding, extreme weakness, and paleness. The Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety warned parents to consult a doctor if any symptoms appear. Symptoms typically take two to five days to show up after ingestion.
HiPP’s baby formula remains unaffected by the recall. This incident follows widespread recalls of infant formula from other brands earlier this year, affecting over 60 countries.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the total number of contaminated products still in circulation. The situation is under investigation by authorities, including the Federal Criminal Police Office.
