Three baby food products recalled in Singapore due to high arsenic levels
Two products originating from Singapore and one from Germany
SINGAPORE - Three baby food products have been recalled in Singapore for detected arsenic levels exceeding the maximum limit stated in the Singapore Food Regulations.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said on Monday (15 May) that the affected infant products are Wen’s Baby Cereal Puree Whitebait and Pumpkin, Wen’s Baby Cereal Puree Whitebait and Purple Sweet Potato originating from Singapore, as well as Holle Organic Wholegrain Cereal Rice originating from Germany.
The expiry dates for both Wen’s Baby Cereal Puree Whitebait products are 15 September this year, while the Holle Organic Wholegrain Cereal Rice have an expiry date of 20 January 2024.
Naoki Trading and Chadil Pte Ltd, which distribute the products in Singapore, have been directed by the SFA to recall the affected batches.
The SFA advised consumers who have purchased these products against feeding them to children. Medical advice should be sought by parents who are concerned over their children who have consumed the implicated products.
Further enquiries on the products can be made from the point of purchase.
Arsenic and its effects
Arsenic can be found in rice and infant rice cereals. It can also be found in food, when the animals and plants that we eat come into contact with water, soil and the seabed, the SFA shared on its website.
As a heavy metal, arsenic can also be found in the earth’s crust and in the environment, and is released through natural and human activities, such as volcanic eruptions and industrial processes.
Due to climate change, more arsenic is expected to be present in the environment, as more rain releases arsenic and other heavy metals trapped in mining sites.
Long-term intake of high levels of arsenic can cause cancer and skin changes. The levels of total arsenic in infant food should not exceed the maximum limit of 0.1ppm.
To minimise arsenic exposure, consumers are advised to offer infants a balanced diet with a wide variety of food.
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