Namib Mills Instant Porridge cleared for consumption

Windhoek: Top Score Instant Porridge has been found safe for consumption , Namib Mills announced on Wednesday . The company in a statement said laboratory tests conducted in South Africa found that the product does not pose a health hazard . The tests were conducted after two toddlers and a baby passed away after consuming vanilla flavoured Top Score Instant Porridge in the Eastern Cape . Namib Mills subsequently withdrew its Top Score products from retail shops while awaiting the results of the tests . Namib Mills spokesperson Marne Bouwer in the statement said the laboratory testing included the batch in question , numbered 06 / 08 / 2024 , as well as multiple batches across different flavours and production dates . ' The results confirm that Top Score Instant Porridge is safe for consumption . To further reassure consumers and stakeholders that our product poses no health risk and complies with the highest standards in food safety , the independent laboratory conducted a series of rigorous tests , includin g pesticide analysis , testing for over 200 different pesticides to ensure none are detected ,' Bouwer said . The test checks for over 200 types of pesticides which can be harmful if ingested . The statement said high pesticide levels can cause acute poisoning , especially in vulnerable populations like children , leading to symptoms such as nausea , vomiting , seizures , and even death . ' This test confirms no harmful pesticide residues were present in our products , ruling out poisoning from pesticide exposure ,' Bouwer added . The test also included heavy metals analysis to ensure that no traces of harmful heavy metals are detected . ' This test detects toxic heavy metals like lead , mercury , and arsenic . Even small amounts of these metals can cause poisoning , particularly in children , leading to neurological damage , organ failure , or death . This test confirms no harmful heavy metals were present in our products , ruling out poisoning from heavy metals exposure ,' Bouwer said . She further added th at a microbiological analysis was conducted which confirmed the absence of harmful microorganisms in the Top Score products . Source: The Namibia News Agency