Fiji’s Ministry of Health has recalled all Belgium-made Kinder chocolate products and advised local retailers to remove them from their shelves due to possible Salmonella (Salmonella Typhimurium) contamination.
With the contamination possibly linked to chocolate that is distributed internationally from a Kinder chocolate factory in Belgium, members of the public are advised not to consume or purchase the chocolates.
Considering that the egg-shaped chocolates are a favorite for shoppers during the looming Easter celebration, the public is being advised to call Phone: (679) 3215058/3215056 or email foodunitfiji@gmail.com or taina.waqaliva@health.gov.fj if they come across outlets selling the products.
On Friday last week, MoHMS received an alert from the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN) specifically regarding the food recall of these products by Ferrero Australia Pty. Ltd; including the recall of products redistributed from Australia to Fiji.
The recalled products are solely imported and distributed in Fiji by the Motibhai Group and have been available for purchase through the following retailers:
- MH Super fresh
- MHCC
- Extras Supermarkets – Flagstaff, Laucala Beach & Lautoka
- Fresh Choice Supermarkets
- Prouds Outlet
The MoHMS Food Unit has met with distributors and retailers, who have agreed to remove the products from their shelves, and to comply with the recall.
Health inspectors in the municipal councils and MoHMS are following up to ensure the distributor and retailers are taking prompt action.
The details of the products under recall are as follows:
The above products were manufactured in Belgium.
All other Ferrero products, including other Kinder products which are manufactured in Italy (including Kinder Surprise 20g single and three-pack eggs in white, blue and pink varieties), are not affected by this recall.
Food products contaminated with Salmonella may cause illness if consumed and severe illness with
- Children younger than 5 years
- Adults older than 65 years
- People with weakened immune systems
Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting.
What to do:
Consumers should not eat these products and should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you or a family member have eaten any of these products and have concerns for your health, please seek medical advice. Medical professionals receiving cases possibly linked to consumption of these products must inform the Ministry of Health and Medical Services using the contact information listed.
The International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN) is a global voluntary network of national authorities with a role in food safety, coordinated by a joint FAO/WHO Secretariat. Fiji is a member of this global network, which provides a practical, effective and efficient tool for information exchange, allowing for the implementation of risk management measures to prevent foodborne illness and save lives. The Focal Point for the INFOSAN is the Chief Health Inspector and Food Unit based at the Ministry of Health & Medical Services.
Source: MOH Press Release
