Following the hospitalization of three toddlers from Jerusalem, in whose blood were found residues of benzodiazepines - sedatives and anesthetics found in anti-anxiety medications for adults - the police and the Ministry of Health have opened an investigation in recent days.
According to a report today (Monday) by Nov Reuveni in Kan News, the suspicion is that the toddlers consumed various types of fruit purees for babies from the 'Prinuk' company, which were purchased at branches of the 'Zol Ve Gadol' chain in Jerusalem.
According to the report, the products were purchased as individual products and not as a package.
The toddlers showed symptoms of apathy and weakness and were evacuated in recent days and last month to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital, where they were hospitalized for observation and then released.
At this stage, it is not possible to determine whether there is a connection between the cases and the product, and no other similar cases are known. However, the investigation is ongoing and all avenues of investigation are being examined.
Following an inquiry by 'Kan News', the Ministry of Health confirmed the details: "At this stage, although the connection to the use of the product has not yet been proven, the Ministry of Health asks parents who have fed their children the product to pay attention if there is a change in the children's behavior, which may be manifested in drowsiness, exhaustion or confused speech, to contact the pediatrician and also to contact the Ministry of Health hotline at *5400, while updating them on the connection to the product.".
It was further stated: "The Ministry of Health wishes to remind you that when purchasing and consuming food products, it is recommended to ensure that the product is closed and in good condition, labeled as required, stored under appropriate conditions, and has an appearance, color, and odor characteristic of the product. The Ministry of Health is in contact with enforcement agencies and will continue to update the public as necessary.".
