Possible absence of vitamin B1 in Remedia Brand Kosher Super Formula Soy Formula

Heads of Environmental Health and Directors of Trading Standards will wish to be aware of a possible formula problem associated with 'Remedia Brand Super Formula Soy Formula' that has led to the possible absence of vitamin B1 (thiamine) in the product. This has been associated with the deaths of three babies and the hospitalisation of a further 17 infants in Israel.

The product is manufactured for Remedia by Humana Milchunion of Herford near Hanover in Germany. Remedia is a joint venture partner with the H J Heinz Company in Israel.

The Remedia formula is not manufactured, sold or marketed anywhere else in the world. While Remedia does not export the formula, it is possible that some independent companies have shipped very small amounts of the product to other countries, generally for consumption by families interested in kosher products, and it is believed that some may have found its way into the UK.

While it is believed that it is only the Tzimchit (this means soy-based in Hebrew) Super Formula that is affected, the company has also, as a precautionary measure, withdrawn the Junior Tzimchit Super Formula.

Identification of the product
Both types of formula are sold in 400g and 800g size cans. They are sold in blue and white cans with green lids, and both cans bear the picture of a yellow chick. The labelling on all cans will be in Hebrew. To assist local authorities in the identification of the product, pictures of the cans can be found at the links below.

If enquiries are received from members of the public who have purchased this product, they should be advised to contact their GPs for medical advice and health visitors who should be able to give advice on alternative formulas. General enquiries can also be directed to Heinz on 0800 496 3283.

Action taken by the Food Standards Agency
The Food Standards Agency has prepared a press release on the issue, which can be found at the link below.

Actions to be taken by local authorities
There remains the possibility that these products have been shipped into the UK in very small quantities. Local authorities with shops in their area known to sell kosher products are requested to contact them to alert them of the problem, and to ensure that if any is on sale, that it is removed from sale and destroyed.

Local authorities may wish to consider providing local publicity if it is felt appropriate to their circumstances. For that purpose they may wish to refer to the Food Standards Agency's press release, which can be found at the link below.

While enforcement action for labelling would normally rest with trading standards authorities, environmental health departments are asked to assist to ensure that all affected products are withdrawn from sale. It is essential that all local authorities liaise at county level to ensure that they co-ordinate their actions.