The Lead
Israel's Ministry of Health has expanded an emergency recall of Prinok brand baby fruit puree after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of clonazepam and lorazepam — both potent benzodiazepine sedatives — in jars sold at two Zol VeGadol supermarket branches in Jerusalem.
The Ministry of Health's investigation into contaminated baby food has escalated following the discovery of pharmaceutical substances in products sold to the public. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, laboratory analysis identified clonazepam and lorazepam in Prinok fruit puree jars. These findings follow earlier reports of at least two infants being hospitalized after consuming the product, which led to an epidemiological investigation and urgent regulatory oversight.
Contamination Details and Scope
The specific contamination was traced to jars purchased at two branches of the Zol VeGadol chain located on Jaffa Road in Jerusalem. While the initial recall was triggered by the hospitalization of infants showing suspicious symptoms, the confirmed presence of anesthetics and sedatives has prompted the ministry to issue a broader warning. The substances found, clonazepam and lorazepam, are prescription medications used to treat anxiety and seizures; their presence in infant nutrition poses a severe health risk.
Health Advisory for Parents
Health officials are urging parents who purchased Prinok puree from the affected locations to immediately cease using the product. The ministry has highlighted specific symptoms that may indicate a child has ingested the contaminated food, including unusual drowsiness, fatigue, or confusion. Parents observing these signs are advised to consult a physician or contact the Ministry of Health hotline immediately. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine how these pharmaceutical substances entered the production or supply chain.
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