The ministry confirmed that this product is currently unavailable in Israeli markets, but warned against purchasing or importing it for consumption due to its extreme danger. It explained that the bacteria produce one of the most dangerous toxins known to humans—botulinum toxin—and that even high doses can be fatal.
This warning comes amid reports from the United States of an outbreak of food poisoning among infants who consumed milk substitutes contaminated with the same deadly bacteria.
Botulinum toxin is a highly toxic neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and related strains. Despite its danger, this toxin is used in medical and cosmetic fields in very precise doses, most notably in Botox injections, for treating muscle spasms, or for cosmetic purposes.
However, exposure to it—especially in infants—can be life-threatening. The Ministry of Health warned that infection with this bacteria in infants can lead to serious symptoms, including a significant decrease in muscle strength.
Extreme fatigue and abnormal drowsiness, difficulty eating or swallowing, breathing problems, and in critical cases: nerve paralysis that may end in death.
The ministry concluded its warning by saying: "If there is any suspicion that a child has been harmed by this product, a doctor should be consulted immediately."