Recalls are important

Information in this article was sourced in part from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).

In late December, FSANZ initiated a Food Product Recall of Bonsoy soy milk, due to unusually high levels of iodine. Nine adults aged from 29 to 47, and one child, presented in NSW with thyroid problems. All reported consuming Bonsoy soy milk.

Iodine is needed for the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. A healthy daily iodine intake is about 80-150 micrograms with a recommended safe upper limit of 1,100 micrograms per day for adults, and from 200 micrograms for 1-3 year olds to 900micrograms for 14 year-olds.

Daily consumption of a cup of Bonsoy soy milk could lead to a daily iodine intake of more than 7,500 micrograms at the levels tested. Chronic consumption of high levels of iodine may affect the thyroid and cause people to feel generally unwell. Anybody consuming Bonsoy soy milk product over a prolonged time who feels generally unwell should consult their doctor.

FSANZ advised people not to consume Bonsoy soy milk. Coffee shops, retail and other outlets should also not have continued using this product.

Recently, inspectors from the NSW Food Authority conducted an investigation into a café in inner Sydney after there was a tip off that it was selling the recalled Bonsoy product. Samples of the recalled product were taken from the premises and there is an ongoing investigation.

Steve Whan, the NSW Primary Industries Minister, said that any company selling goods that have been recalled would face a heavy penalty in NSW of up to $110,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations.

Recalls are serious and product must be withdrawn from sale and it is the responsibility of each food business to ensure it is aware of recalls that are happening.

FSANZ is the national co-ordinator of Food Product Recalls, and issues a Recall Notice when each is initiated. This notice is issued for free, and all businesses can go to www.foodstandards.gov.au to join the mailing list.