Information Update - Bacteria found in "Vega One French Vanilla": Product lots being recalled

OTTAWA, Feb. 21, 2013 /CNW/ - Sequel Naturals Ltd. is voluntarily recalling three lots of its natural health product "Vega One French Vanilla" in various sizes (see table below) after testing conducted by Health Canada identified bacteria that could pose a risk to consumers with weakened immune systems.

The testing found the presence of Klebsiella species (K. oxytoca), Citrobacter braakii, Cronobacter sakazakii group, Enterobacter cloacae complex, Acinetobacter species (A. baumannii and A. haemolyticus) and Leclercia adecarboxylata.

While none of these bacteria present a significant risk to healthy Canadians, K. oxytoca poses a potential risk to the health of Canadians with immune systems weakened by serious illnesses. This bacterium can cause infection of the lower intestine, causing cramps and watery, bloody diarrhea. It may also cause lung infections and urinary tract infections. If introduced into a wound, it may cause infections of the skin, soft tissues, organs, or blood poisoning.

Sequel Naturals Ltd. is requesting that retailers immediately stop sale of these products and return them to the company. The product is sold in various locations across Canada, including pharmacies, natural health stores and grocery stores. The product is also available at www.myvega.com.

Health Canada is monitoring the recall by Sequel Naturals Ltd. Should new information be identified, the Department will provide an update to Canadians.

Canadians who have concerns about their use of this product should consult with their health care practitioner. Consumers wishing more information on this recall can contact Sequel Naturals Ltd. at 1-866-839-8863.

The following information will help consumers identify affected product and can be found on the product label and outer packaging.

How to report side effects to health products to Health Canada

• Call toll-free at 1-866-234-2345
• Visit MedEffect Canada's web page on Adverse Reaction Reporting for information on how to report online, by mail or by fax.

Stay connected with Health Canada and receive the latest advisories and product recalls using social media tools.

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SOURCE: Health Canada