Topaz Wafer Rolls Recall: Risk of Melamine Contamination

The FDA and National Brands, Inc. have issued a Topaz Wafer Rolls recall after discovering that some of the flavored cream-filled wafers may be contaminated with Melamine, a chemical substance which has recently been associated with thousands of babies in China becoming sick after receiving infant formula contaminated with Melamine.

The Wafer Rolls recall applies to those with “Chocolate Flavored Cream Filling” (Lot numbers L8085A, L8219A, L8245A), “Hazelnut Chocolate Flavored Cream Filling” (Lot numbers L8085D, L8219D, L8245D), “Vanilla Flavored Cream Filling” (Lot numbers L8085B, L8219B, L8245B) and “Mocha Cappuccino Flavored Cream Filling” (Lot numbers L8085C, L8219C, L8245C).

The products were distributed throughout the United States in 4.76 oz and 12.3 oz metal cans.

Although no illnesses have been reported, FDA testing discovered that the Wafer Rolls contain Melamine, which could potentially lead to serious injuries for some people.

Melamine is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of cleaning products, pesticides, can liners and fertilizers. It has a high nitrogen content and when added to food, makes it appear protein rich when tested.

If Melamine is ingested it is toxic and could potentially lead to kidney stones, bladder cancer and damage to the reproductive system. Chronic toxicity may result if Melamine is combined with its breakdown product cyanuric acid and crystallizes to form kidney stones.

The FDA’s safety limit of melamine exposure is 0.063 mg daily. Melamine is used in tableware and food packaging and trace amounts of 1 part per million have been reported in food and beverages stored in melamine containers.

In 2007, a pet food recall was initiated in the U.S. by Menu Foods and other pet food manufacturers after melamine contamination was found in foods imported from China, causing serious injuries and deaths in pet animals.

In September 2008, infant formula and milk products in China were found to be adulterated with melamine. Around 53,000 people fell ill, with over 12,800 hospitalizations and at least 4 infant deaths.

The FDA disclosed in November 2008 that some U.S. infant formula samples tested positive for the trace levels (amounts less than 2,500 parts per billion) of Melamine and cyanuric acid. However, the FDA indicated that the trace levels of Melamine in U.S. infant formula was not toxic and remained safe to use.