Health Ministry Investigates Baby Fruit Puree After Several Toddlers Hospitalized

Several toddlers from Jerusalem were hospitalized after eating Prinook baby fruit puree bought at branches of the Zol UveGadol retail chain. Israel’s Health Ministry opened an urgent investigation into a possible link between the product and the hospitalizations, but said no connection has been proven so far.

According to a report on Kan 11, police also opened an investigation in recent days after traces of benzodiazepines were found in the children’s blood. Benzodiazepines are a group of substances used in adult sedatives, sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medication, including Clonex and Valium. The case involves at least three toddlers treated at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital, some in recent days and others last month.

The children arrived with apathy and weakness, were admitted for observation, and were later discharged home. After receiving the report, the Health Ministry launched an epidemiological investigation and immediate monitoring and enforcement steps. The ministry stressed that it still cannot say with certainty whether there is any connection between the cases and the puree.

The suspected product was sold individually, not as part of a multipack. Parents who fed their children the product are being asked to watch for changes such as drowsiness, fatigue or confused speech, and to contact a pediatrician and the Health Ministry hotline if such symptoms appear. The ministry also advised consumers to check that food is sealed, properly labeled, stored correctly, and has the expected appearance, color and smell. The ministry said it is in contact with law-enforcement agencies and will continue updating the public.