An interesting recall in Australia, since also in EU is mandatory declare on the label the presence of quinine as flavouring in such beverages. For more information about this recall click here.
Quinine is a natural white crystalline alkaloid having antipyretic, antimalarial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties and a bitter taste. Quinine occurs naturally in the bark of the cinchona tree, though it has also been synthesized in the laboratory. The medicinal properties of the cinchona tree were originally discovered by the Quechua, who are indigenous to Peru and Bolivia; later, the Jesuits were the first to bring cinchona to Europe. Today is used as flavour component of tonic water and bitter lemon. Allergic reactions to quinine can be severe and can affect multiple organs.
Schweppes Australia P/L has recalled Schweppes Indian Tonic Water from Coles, Woolworths, IGA and other independent retail stores in ACT, NSW and QLD due to non compliant labelling (some individual bottles of tonic water are incorrectly labelled as ‘Soda water’ and therefore the quinine declaration is missing). Consumers who are sensitive to quinine may have a reaction if they consume this product. Consumers sensitive to quinine should not consume this product and should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Notified: 30/12/2014
Package description and size: 4 glass bottles contained within a printed cardboard sleeve -300ml x 4 pack
BEST BEFORE 21 OCT 15 and 22 OCT 15 – Factory code 3212
Country of origin: Australia
Contact
Schweppes Australia P/L – 1800 761 470, www.schweppesaustralia.com.au
(Source: FSANZ website)
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This seems surprising in a number of ways. I think all tonic water is flavored with quinine – one might give that as an excuse, yet, a first-time buyer/user might not know (but will he read the fine print?). Also, it is often called quinine water. It is surprising too, because Schweppes is a big organization and should have known better.
Quinine is helpful in combating muscle cramps and difficult to purchase in the U.S. for that purpose, but tonic water, mixed with fruit juice syrup, makes a very pleasant home remedy.
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