New details in the case of the suspected tampering with HiPP baby food point to a targeted extortion attempt. Investigations are continuing at full speed in several countries.
Following the suspected tampering with HiPP baby food in several countries, further background information is coming to light. As previously reported, investigations in Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia are in full swing.
According to the manufacturer HiPP, the case centres on an extortion attempt. An as yet unknown perpetrator is said to have sent a message to a non-personalised central inbox of the company. This was reportedly only noticed with some delay as part of regular procedures. Immediately after it became known, HiPP informed the relevant authorities and set up an internal crisis team.
At the same time, measures to protect consumers were initiated without delay. The company emphasises that it is working closely with the investigating authorities and coordinating communication accordingly. Details about the course of events remain limited for investigative reasons.
According to the company, the incident is not related to product quality. Production, control and quality assurance processes are functioning without restriction. Rather, it is said to be a targeted external manipulation that took place outside the manufacturer’s sphere of influence.
According to the Austrian broadcaster ORF, five tampered jars have since been secured before consumption in Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. One further jar may still be in circulation in Austria. In total, up to twelve jars sold could have been affected by the tampering, according to press information, although the broadcaster did not provide further details on its sources.
The authorities say suspicious jars can be identified by several specific characteristics. These include a white label with a red circle on the underside, damaged or already opened lids, missing safety seals, and a noticeable smell.
The Czech Ministry of Health had already issued a warning on Sunday, 19 April, urging parents to check their stocks of HiPP baby food immediately and to report any suspected cases to the relevant hygiene authorities.
