FSF
29/08/2013 08:30
GENERAL
REL: 0830 HRS Fonterra Shareholders' Fund (NS)
GENERAL: FSF: Fonterra relieved on 'all clear' from Clostridium Botulinum
Fonterra has today learned from New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries
that additional independent testing has definitively established that there
was no presence of Clostridium botulinum in Fonterra's whey protein
concentrate ingredient and the products made using it, including infant
formula.
This was additional testing commissioned by MPI of the original samples
tested by AgResearch which led to Fonterra and MPI initiating the
precautionary recall. The latest independent research involved a total of 195
tests carried out in both the United States and New Zealand.
Chief executive Theo Spierings said, while there is a sense of shared relief
that the product was not contaminated, Fonterra had done the right thing by
initiating a precautionary recall. "Food safety remains our number one
priority.
"The original results from AgResearch indicated the presence of
toxin-producing Clostridium botulinum in the affected whey protein
concentrate and we could therefore not take any chances," he said.
Fonterra originally commissioned independent testing from Crown Research
Institute, AgResearch, as one of only two research facilities in New Zealand
capable of carrying out testing for Clostridium botulinum.
"On the basis of the results we received from the AgResearch tests, we had no
choice but to alert regulators, and announce a global precautionary recall
with our customers.
"We have just learned of the further and definitive test results. While we
share a sense of relief about them, this in no way lessens our commitment to
undertaking a thorough review into what happened, and to learn from this
experience."
Mr Spierings acknowledged there had been confusion and anxiety arising from
the complexity of the precautionary recall and apologised for it.
"The past few weeks have been very difficult for parents in a number of
countries, as well as for our customers, our farmers, and our staff.
"For me, as Fonterra's CEO and as a father of three children, I truly believe
that in initiating the recall, we took the right decision and did the right
thing at the most critical moment. Given the same circumstances, and with
food safety always front of mind, I would do the same again.
"Food safety and quality must always remain our top priority. I have created
a new role of Group Director, Food Safety and Quality that reports directly
to me. Fonterra already has world-class food safety systems, and we'll make
sure that our dedication to food safety is further embedded in everything we
do.
"The news today does not affect the various reviews and inquiries underway.
We are committed to learning from, and sharing, any findings about how we can
improve. We will do this in an open and transparent way," Mr Spierings said.
End CA:00240342 For:FSF Type:GENERAL Time:2013-08-29 08:30:14
