Nestlé announced late last week a recall of Nesquik for possible Salmonella contamination. Promoted by the Nesquik Bunny, the chocolate milk flavoring is consumed primarily by children. Here's what you need to know to make sure your kids are safe from this Salmonella risk.
How Do I Know If My Nesquik Is Part of the Recall?
The Nesquik recall covers only chocolate powder in 10.9, 21.8 and 40.7 ounce canisters manufactured during October 2012. Any other Nesquik products are not subject to recall. According to CNN, 200,000 canisters of Nesquik are included in the recall.
Nesquik subject to the recall bears a Best Before date of October 2014. The applicable UPC codes and production codes include: for 40.7 ounce containers UPC 0 28000 68230 9 with production codes 2282574810 or 2282574820; for 21.8 ounce size, UPC 0 28000 68090 9 and production codes 2278574810, 2278574820, 2279574810, 2279574820, 2284574820, 2284574830, 2285574810, 2285574820, 2287574820, 2289574810, or 2289574820; and, for 10.9 ounce canisters, UPC 0 28000 67990 3 and product code 2278574810.
What About Ready-to-Drink Nesquik Served at My Kid's School?
In June, Nestlé went after the school lunch market by offering eight-ounce ready-to-drink Nesquik. If your child's school is serving ready-to-drink Nesquik, there's no cause for concern. The recall covers only the powder variety of Nesquik, not the ready-to-drink type.
What Led to the Nesquik Recall?
Nestlé identifies a supplier of calcium carbonate used in the drink powder as the culprit. The recall notice says Omya, Inc., notified Nestlé of its own product recall due to Salmonella concerns. There have been no reports of illness associated with the Nesquik recall, Nestlé says.
What Is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate is an additive included in powdered products to prevent caking and/or to increase calcium content, according to Self.
If My Child Gets Sick, How Will I Know Whether or Not It's from Salmonella?
Salmonella infection symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. These normally develop within 72 hours of consuming contaminated food or drink. Most people who do contract salmonellosis get better in about a week without treatment. For infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems, salmonellosis can be life threatening and medical treatment is advised.
Can I Get a Refund?
Yes. Return recalled Nesquik to the store where you bought it for a refund, or call Nestlé Consumer Services at (800) 628-7679.
Carol Bengle Gilbert writes about consumer issues for the Yahoo! Contributor Network.
