Sequel Naturals Recalls Vega One Nutritional Shakes and Sports Performance Drinks

Starting date:

November 6, 2013

Type of communication:

Information Update

Subcategory:

Natural health products

Source of recall:

Health Canada

Issue:

Contamination

Audience:

General Public

Identification number:

RA-36655

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  Issue
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  Media enquiries
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  Public enquiries

Issue

Sequel Naturals Ltd., in cooperation with Health Canada, has initiated an immediate voluntary recall of a number of Vega products, including nutrition shakes and sports performance drinks (see list below) that have tested positive for, or that may potentially be contaminated with, the antibiotic chloramphenicol. The action follows Health Canada's public communication issued November 1, 2013.

Sequel Naturals Ltd. and a number of other companies were supplied contaminated enzyme preparations by Specialty Enzymes & Biotechnologies that were then used in making their natural health products. As a result, natural health products from these companies are at risk of contamination with chloramphenicol.

Chloramphenicol is a prescription drug and should only be used under medical supervision in adults and children after careful consideration of the risks associated with its use. It is associated with a rare risk of aplastic anemia, a serious blood disorder that can be fatal. Other potential side effects include allergic reactions in people who have sensitivity to the medication, and effects on the bone marrow leading to decreased blood cells. In addition, it should not be used by pregnant or lactating women.

Consumer requiring further information on the recall can contact Sequel Naturals Ltd. at 1-866-839-8863. Health Canada has posted a full list of affected products being recalled in Canada by various companies supplied with contaminated enzyme preparations.

Media enquiries

Health Canada

613-957-2983

Public enquiries

613-957-2991

1-866-225-0709