Diet product recalled over lethal seeds

Diet product recalled over lethal seeds

http://l.yimg.com/ea/img/-/110316/la...ZY3udFwD3cCg--A nut-based diet product has been recalled around Australia after tests indicated it was highly toxic and possibly lethal.
Australians taking The Latin Seed, which bills itself as a natural weight loss product and is sold through health stores, chemists and online, are urged to stop doing so immediately.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand announced the nationwide recall after tests showed some batches contained nuts that were not listed on the box.

"Test results . . . indicate that the nuts may not be candlenuts, but the poisonous seed of the Yellow Oleander," the food safety regulator said.
"Customers should cease consuming the product immediately (and) any consumers with health concerns should seek medical advice.
"Customers are advised to return the product to the point of purchase for an immediate full cash refund."

FSANZ said the NSW-based company which sold it, Lumsden Health Products, was recalling all stock of the product as a "precautionary measure to protect the healthof its customers".

"Please understand that this situation is abnormal and we are working with our insurance company, and the government bodies, with regard to refund process," the company said.

The product, described on its packaging as "The Natural Secret of South America", is listed as made in Brazil and contains 12 seeds per box.

Yellow Oleander is a common plant species in Australia, and the Queensland Poisons Information Centre warns "all parts of the plant are toxic if eaten, particularly the fruit and seeds".

"This species has been responsible for the deaths of several children," the service warns.
"Symptoms may include a burning sensation in the mouth, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness and a slow or irregular heartbeat."

More information is available on the FSANZ website or contact Lumsden Health Products on 1300 882 506.