Police in Austria have confirmed that rat poison was detected in a jar of HiPP baby food, following a product recall from over 1,000 Spar supermarkets across the country. The contamination was found in a 190g jar of carrots and potatoes baby food, reported by a customer in Burgenland.
HiPP stated on Saturday that it could not rule out the introduction of a dangerous substance into the product, suggesting the jars may have been tampered with. The company warned that consuming the contents could be life-threatening.
Authorities noted that affected jars have a sticker with a red circle on the bottom, a lid that is already opened, damaged, or missing a safety seal, or an unusual smell. Initial lab tests on similar jars seized in the Czech Republic and Slovakia also indicated the presence of a toxic substance.
The recall, described as a precautionary measure, affects 1,500 Spar stores in Austria but does not impact outlets elsewhere. HiPP attributed the situation to external criminal interference targeting the Spar Austria distribution channel.
Spar and HiPP advised customers not to consume the jars purchased from Spar Austria and to return them for a full refund. Police recommended thorough hand washing if contact with a jar occurs.
