Media statement: Advisory on White Rabbit Brand Confectionery

24 September 2008

Australian Food Regulators have commenced a formal request today to wholesalers and importers to voluntarily withdraw White Rabbit Brand Candies from shops pending further results of testing for melamine.

Testing in New Zealand released late today has confirmed that this product contains sufficiently high levels of melamine which may, in some individuals, cause health problems such as kidney stones if consumed in high quantities over a long period.

People are advised not to consume these milk-based sweets imported from China.   This product is sold in retail packs through Asian retailers, supermarkets and restaurants.

Anyone who has the product should not to consume it. It is unlikely that there could be a problem if consumed in small amounts but people with concerns about the consumption of this product should seek medical advice.

The Australian State and Territory agencies will be working closely with wholesalers and importers to facilitate this voluntary withdrawal.

Australia does not import infant formula products from China and has not imported full-dairy products, such as yoghurt or condensed milk, from China since March 2007 .   Food Standards Australia New Zealand and State and Territory agencies are continuing to monitor the situation.

 

Media contact: Lydia Buchtmann FSANZ 02 6271 2620 or 0401 714 265 or +61 2 6271 2620 or +61 401 714 265 from New Zealand.