Suspect Arrested in Israel for Drugging Baby Food

Israeli police arrested a man in his 40s from southern Israel on Monday, August 31, on suspicion of adding psychotropic drugs to jars of "Pri'gunok" brand baby fruit puree. The suspect has been interrogated and is scheduled to appear before the Jerusalem Magistrate's Court on September 1 for a remand hearing. Police are continuing to investigate the potential involvement of others in the incident.

The case came to light on June 11, 2026, when four infants were admitted to the intensive care unit at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem exhibiting symptoms of weakness and apathy. Medical tests revealed the presence of benzodiazepines, tranquilizers commonly found in adult sedatives like Valium and Clonex, in the infants' bloodstreams. The infants were conscious and their condition improved, leading to their discharge from the hospital the following day in satisfactory condition.

Investigations determined that the contaminated baby food was sold at the "Zol U'Be'Gadol" store in Jerusalem. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Potential side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, reduced muscle tone, dizziness, and, in high doses, slowed breathing. In young children, these can manifest as sleepiness, apathy, muscle weakness, and breathing difficulties requiring medical observation.