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Two adverse reactions linked to chemically tainted candy

By Joseph James Whitworth

- Last updated on GMT

Picture: Wamego Police Department
Picture: Wamego Police Department

Related tags Chemical substance

Contaminated candy received through a distribution program has been linked to at least two 'adverse reactions'

Bibi Frutix candy was sent to a food pantry agency in Wamego, Kansas through Harvesters’ distribution program.

It is contaminated with a 'chemical substance' and is potentially harmful if eaten.

FDA has advised, if in possession of the candy product, do not consume and dispose immediately. People who experience symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Wamego Police Department said it had received a report from ‘several citizens’ that candy was possibly tainted.

The powdery substance - normally sugar - has not yet been analyzed. However, several people said the powder had a chemical taste and two had adverse reactions.

The candy comes in a small baby bottle, is labeled Bibi Frutix and was made in Mexico. It was donated to Harvesters - The Community Food Network. Harvesters estimates six cases or fewer was received.

Harvesters’ agencies that could have received it are in 19 counties of Kansas: Johnson, Wyandotte, Miami, Franklin, Douglas, Jefferson, Shawnee, Nemaha, Pottawatomie, and Wabaunsee. Missouri counties are Jackson, Platte, Clay, Ray, Lafayette, Johnson and Bates.

Harvesters did not answer our questions but said it was an ongoing investigation and had shared all the information it currently had available.

“We issued this alert because we are concerned for the public' safety after learning of the potentially contaminated candy product we received from a donation. The safety of the public, Harvesters' agency partners, clients, volunteers and staff is most important to us.

“We are constantly reviewing our policies and procedures to ensure our agencies and clients in our service area receive safe, quality products.”

Related topics Regulation & Safety Candy

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