Food Standards Agency
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Asphalia Natural Sleep supplements recalled

Asphalia has recalled a batch of its Asphalia for Natural Sleep supplements because they have been found to contain lead at levels above the legal limits. The Agency has issued a Product Recall Information Notice.

Product information

The product being recalled is:

  • Product: Asphalia for Natural Sleep
  • Batch number: Batch 14

This batch went on sale in April 2010, however there might still be some product available. Asphalia has recalled the affected supplements from consumers and has contacted retailers, who will display point-of-sale notices in their stores explaining the reason for the recall.

No other Asphalia products are known to be affected.

The science behind the story

Exposure to lead can cause toxic effects in the central nervous system, particularly the developing brain, as well as high blood pressure and kidney disease in adults. Young children are especially vulnerable to the effects of lead and are more susceptible to its neurotoxicity. Consuming these supplements may therefore pose a risk to health.

About product withdrawals and recalls

If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be 'withdrawn' (taken off the shelves) or 'recalled' (when customers are asked to return the product). The Food Standards Agency issues Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food. In some cases, a ‘Food Alert for Action’ is issued. This provides local authorities with details of specific action to be taken on behalf of consumers.

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