No lead poisoning in children linked to infant formula scare: health authorities

Hong Kong health authorities have declared that no children have exhibited any signs of lead poisoning resulting from a recent batch of infant formula that was discovered to contain excessive lead levels. This confirmation comes a month after Macau authorities alerted the public to potential lead contamination in Frisolac Prestige Stage 1 infant formula, produced by the Dutch company Royal FrieslandCampina.

Following the alert, health authorities set up a dedicated hotline and maternal and child health centers to address the public's concerns. In response, they received 762 inquiries. Health officers have been contributing to the situation by providing guidance on alternative infant formula options and referring 446 babies and young children for assessment and follow-up care.

Of these, 237 individuals have undergone clinical examinations. According to the department, "results indicated that their overall health is good and that none have shown signs of lead poisoning."

The number of inquiries has been gradually decreasing, and the hotline will be closing operations at 6pm on Friday. The department has advised parents not to overlook any signs of illness in their children and to seek medical advice if necessary. The Centre for Food Safety, which ordered the product's recall, has intensified its monitoring of lead content in powdered infant and follow-up formula available in the market. As of now, no cases have been identified that surpass Hong Kong's statutory standards for lead levels.

In late July, Macau authorities raised safety concerns after tests on some samples from a batch of Frisolac Prestige Stage 1 showed lead levels of 0.2mg/kg, significantly higher than the maximum legal limit of 0.02mg/kg for such products. The Dutch manufacturer of Friso reassured the public, stating that their product is safe and that third-party quality testing confirmed their products met Hong Kong and Macau standards.