PHL's FDA warns vs US-made 'Nesquik' powdered drink

(Updated 3:53 p.m.) - Local health authorities on Tuesday advised consumers to be on the lookout for a batch of Nestle "Nesquik" chocolate powder from the United States that may be tainted with salmonella.

 

The Food and Drug Administration said Nestle USA had voluntarily recalled limited quantities of the product in 10.9-, 21.8-, and 40.7-ounce canisters.

 

"In the interest of protecting public health and safety, the Department of Health-FDA hereby issues this advisory to inform the public that the affected Nesquik chocolate powder was produced during early October 2012 and with an expiration date of Best Before Oct 2014," FDA head Kenneth Hartigan-Go said in Advisory 2012-012 posted on the FDA website Tuesday night.

 

Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever, which develop within eight to 72 hours of eating or drinking contaminated food.

 

The FDA said the illness lasts four to seven days, with people likely to recover without treatment.

 

But it also noted salmonellosis can be severe or life-threatening for infants, older people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

 

Hartigan-Go noted FDA records show "Nesquik" is not registered with the FDA Philippines. The product registered with FDA Philippines is Nestle "Nesquick" Chocolate flavor.

 

In the meantime, he asked the public to not consume the product and return it to the place of purchase for a refund; and consult health care providers if they think they became ill due to the product.

 

Also, he urged the public to report persons or entities selling the products at (02) 807-8275. Nestle, meanwhile, issued a statement saying "there have been no reports of any illnesses or adverse health effects associated with Nesquik chocolate powder." To ensure the safety of the public, the company said it has called for "a voluntary recall of limited quantities of the product, sold in the US market only, as a precautionary measure. No other varieties of the product are affected. No other countries are affected by this recall." "The safety and quality of our products are a non-negotiable priority for the company. We apologise to our customers and consumers for any inconvenience caused by this withdrawal," the company added in its statement. — ELR/KG, GMA News