![Recalls for various foods due to mercury contamination](https://tipsforwomens.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Recalls-for-various-foods-due-to-mercury-contamination.jpeg)
Recalls are currently underway for various foods because tests have revealed mercury contamination. Consumption should be avoided. Inorganic mercury accumulates primarily in the kidneys. It can also affect the liver, nervous system, reproductive system, and immune system.
The Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) reports on its website about the recalls for the products “BILLA GENUSSWELT TONNO A PINNE GIALLE AFFUMICATO 100G” and for “DESPAR PREMIUM tuna smoked 100g”. The foods are each being recalled due to mercury contamination.
Consumption is not recommended
On the one hand, AGES informs about a recall from REWE International AG. The supplier Interfood Grocery Wholesale GmbH is therefore recalling the product “BILLA GENUSSWELT TONNO A PINNE GIALLE AFFUMICATO 100G” (GTIN/V-EAN: 9010437029391; best before date (best before date): February 5th, 2024).
According to the information, an increased level of mercury was found during routine testing of the affected product.
For example, mercury enters the food chain and thus into food through deposits in the soil and water. In predatory fish, such as tuna, which are at the bottom of the food chain, this can accumulate to a greater extent and is therefore part of regular routine examinations.
Consuming the product mentioned with a best-before date of February 5, 2024 is not recommended. The goods mentioned can also be returned without a receipt.
Legal maximum value exceeded
Furthermore, AGES informs about the recall by SPAR for the product “DESPAR PREMIUM smoked tuna 100g” with the best before date of February 5th, 2024.
During routine quality control, this item was found to have exceeded the legal maximum level of mercury.
Consumers are requested not to consume the “DESPAR PREMIUM tuna smoked 100g” with the best before date (BBD) February 5, 2024.
All customers who have purchased the product in question can return it to the nearest SPAR, EUROSPAR or INTERSPAR store or Maximarkt. You will receive a refund of the purchase price even without a receipt.
Health hazards
As AGES explains, inorganic mercury accumulates primarily in the kidneys. It can also affect the liver, nervous system, reproductive system and immune system.
Organic mercury compounds are considered particularly dangerous forms of mercury in food.
For example, methylmercury can cross the blood-brain barrier and the placenta, which can lead to neurological damage. The developing nervous system of the unborn child is particularly sensitive to such mercury compounds. (ad)