Probe Launched After Sedatives Found in Baby Food Linked to Infant Hospitalizations

Israel’s Health Ministry and police have opened an urgent investigation after three toddlers from Jerusalem were hospitalized at Hadassah Ein Kerem with apathy and weakness. All three were admitted over the past month, and blood tests found traces of benzodiazepines, a class of sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs used for adults, including Valium and Clonex.

The children were treated under observation and later discharged home. Investigators are focusing on the possibility that they ate different fruit and vegetable purees produced by the Frinok company. According to the information so far, the puree jars were bought individually, not as part of a multipack, at branches of the Zol u’b’Gadol supermarket chain in Jerusalem.

At this stage, authorities have not confirmed a direct link between the food products and the children’s condition, and no additional similar cases have been reported. The Health Ministry said parents who fed their children the product should watch for changes such as drowsiness, exhaustion, or confused speech, contact a pediatrician, and call the ministry hotline while noting the connection to the product.

The ministry also urged consumers to make sure food products are sealed and intact, properly labeled, stored under suitable conditions, and have the expected appearance, color, and smell. It said it is in contact with law-enforcement agencies and will continue updating the public as needed.