HiPP recalls baby food across europe amid poison contamination alert

Police in Austria have confirmed that rat poison was discovered in a jar of HiPP baby food, intensifying concerns after a widespread recall of the product from more than 1,000 SPAR supermarkets across the country.

Authorities in Burgenland said a laboratory test on a 190-gram jar of “Carrots and Potatoes” baby food, reported by a customer, returned a positive result for a toxic substance. 

The finding has prompted a broader investigation into possible tampering.

HiPP had already warned that it could not rule out external interference in its products, stating that certain jars of its vegetable purée may have been deliberately contaminated. The company said consuming affected products could be “life-threatening.”

Police said the suspect jars were identified by a sticker with a red circle on the base, along with signs such as broken or missing safety seals, prior opening, or unusual odours. 

Authorities added that similar jars seized in the Czech Republic and Slovakia also showed traces of toxic substances during initial tests, though full details have not been released.

Investigators in Austria said they were alerted following related inquiries in Germany, as the case expands across multiple countries.

HiPP said the incident appears to involve “external criminal interference” affecting its distribution through SPAR Austria. The company was not immediately available for further comment.

SPAR confirmed the precautionary recall affects around 1,500 stores in Austria but said outlets in other countries are not impacted. 

The retailer and HiPP have both advised customers not to consume the affected jars and to return them for a full refund.

Authorities have also urged consumers to wash their hands if they have handled any of the recalled products while investigations continue.