An imported baby biscuit has been recalled by New Zealand Food Safety after concerns it may contain animal droppings.
Morinaga brand Manna Bolo baby biscuits, imported from Japan, have been recalled in Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong, as well as New Zealand.
All batches and all dates are impacted.
“The concern with these biscuits is that they are marketed at babies and young children, who could get seriously sick from bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella if they swallow animal droppings,” NZ Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle said.
“These products should not be eaten. People can return them to the place of purchase for a refund or, if that’s not possible, throw them away.”
Arbuckle said it was unknown which animal this issue stemmed from.
“Japanese food safety authorities are responsible for this matter, and we have not been informed which type of animal dropping this might be.”
NZ Food Safety has said there were currently no reports of associated illness from the products, however should anyone be concerned about the heath of themselves or their children after eating the product should seek medical advice.
Symptoms of salmonellosis and E. coli infection included stomach cramps, diarrhoea, fever, headache, nausea, and throwing up.
The biscuits were sold at wholesale grocers and ethnic grocery stores nationwide.