The Department Health and Community Services is warning consumers not to buy or consume the Piranha brand of vegetarian cracker snack foods as it may contain unusually high levels of a naturally occurring compound that could cause severe adverse reactions, especially in children.
The product, branded as gluten-free Piranha Vege Crackers is made from the cassava plant which contains cyanogenic glycosides, a compound which is dangerous if not broken down properly. This is usually at non-toxic levels following the manufacturing process.
The NT Chief Health Officer, Dr Christine Connors, urged consumers not to eat the snack food.
"This is a precautionary food recall as there is no evidence of the product causing any illness, however, people should not consume the product until further testing is undertaken.
"While the risk is low, these crackers may cause adverse reactions if eaten in moderate amounts such as two 100g packets, particularly for children," Dr Connors said.
The product, in 25g and 100g packs and various flavours, is being voluntarily recalled by it's manufacturer, Tixana Australia Pty Ltd.
The product is sold in the health food sections of a variety of stores.
"Our Environmental Health Officers are presently working to ensure that the product is taken off the shelves in the Territory.
"Anyone who sees this product for sale or has already purchased it should immediately return it at the point of sale for a full refund," Dr Connors said.
The NSW Food Authority is working with the manufacturer to determine whether the problem is isolated to particular batches and Food Standards Australia New Zealand is currently working on checking all known distributors of the product.
Media Inquiries: Sonia Peters 0401 119 550
Release date: 13 January 2008
