Rat Poison Scare in Baby Food Shocks Austria and Triggers Cross Border Probe

A rat poison scare involving HiPP baby food has caused alarm in Austria after police and health officials confirmed that a tested jar of “carrot with potato” baby food, sold for infants from five months old, contained a toxic substance. Authorities say the case is being treated as suspected criminal tampering rather than a manufacturing defect.

The issue first prompted a precautionary recall from SPAR stores in Austria, then widened as related samples and market actions extended to Slovakia and the Czech Republic. HiPP said the jars left its facilities in proper condition and described the case as external criminal interference, while Austria’s food safety agency said the incident is suspected to be linked to an attempted blackmail scheme.

Officials warned parents to watch for jars carrying a white sticker with a red circle on the bottom, damaged lids, an unusual smell, or no popping sound when first opened. No known injuries had been reported as of Sunday, but customers were told not to use suspicious jars and to return them immediately.

Austria’s health agency said the suspected poison is bromadiolone, which interferes with blood clotting. Symptoms may appear two to five days after ingestion and can include bleeding gums, nosebleeds, bruising, or blood in the stool. Parents were advised to seek urgent medical care if a child shows bleeding, unusual weakness, or marked paleness after possible exposure.