Multiple samples of HiPP baby food jars have been recalled from shelves in Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic after testing positive for rodenticide. The substance, identified as likely bromadiolone, is a rat poison that prevents blood clotting and can cause severe internal bleeding.
Austrian authorities confirmed the contamination on Sunday, April 19. The affected products are 190-gram jars of carrot and potato baby food for infants five months and older, sold at SPAR supermarkets in Austria.
HiPP stated the recall is due to a criminal act, not a product defect, and that jars left their facility in perfect condition. Burgenland Police are advising parents to inspect jars for warning signs: a white sticker with a red circle on the base, a damaged lid, an unusual smell, or a lack of a popping sound upon opening.
The health risks include bleeding gums, nosebleeds, bruising, and blood in stool, with symptoms appearing two to five days post-ingestion. Vitamin K is an effective treatment.
HiPP is offering full refunds for recalled jars. While no additional positive tests have been confirmed in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, all HiPP baby food jars have been removed from sale as a precaution. Authorities have not identified a suspect.