Austria: Police Find Rat Poison in Recalled Baby Food Jar

Austria’s police confirmed the discovery of rat poison in a batch of baby food jars that had been recalled by the German company HiPP. The contaminated products were identified in multiple locations, including Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. The recall was initiated due to concerns about potential tampering, with the suspect substance believed to have been introduced into the carrot and potato puree mix.

Investigation Unfolds Across Three Countries

Authorities in Austria’s eastern Burgenland region stated that the jars were seized following an ongoing investigation in Germany. A customer reported finding a 190-gram jar of the baby food, which became the focus of testing. On Saturday afternoon, analysis confirmed the presence of rat poison in the sample, prompting immediate warnings to the public.

A sample of the seized product was examined on Saturday afternoon and tested positive for rat poison, the authorities noted.

Austria’s food safety agency speculated that the poison might have been added intentionally as part of an extortion plot. Police urged consumers to avoid eating the affected jars and advised thorough handwashing after contact with the products. HiPP, based in Germany, acknowledged the possibility of external interference in its supply chain, stating that the contamination or tampering could not be excluded.

Recalled Products to Be Refunded

HiPP and SPAR supermarkets announced that customers would receive full refunds for the recalled items upon return. The company described the situation as a critical risk, warning that consumption of the tainted jars could lead to severe health consequences. This incident follows a series of similar food safety alerts in the baby food sector, involving major brands like Nestlé, Danone, and Lactalis.

The ongoing probe aims to determine the source of the contamination and prevent further distribution of the harmful product. Authorities are now working to trace the affected jars and ensure public safety.