Nappy pants warning after shocking discovery in popular supermarket buy
Experts have warned the outbreak could be causing allergic reactions.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) released an alert after the discovery of destructive beetle larvae inside the product.
The insect in question is the Khapra beetle, which was detected on September 7. Authorities say it represents one of the largest biosecurity threats to the nation.
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"A major threat"
The bug is Australia’s number one exotic priority pest when it comes to the grain industry. Experts warn that an outbreak could devastate crops and cost the Australian economy an estimated $15.5 billion over 20 years.
Grains such as wheat, canola and barley can be made totally unfit for both animal and human consumption should it spread.
“Khapra beetle are a serious pest of stored grain and dry foodstuffs worldwide,” DAFF said in a statement.
“The beetle is not currently present in Australia, and if it spreads, it would pose a major threat to Australia’s grains and other plant industries.”
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Don't return to stores
While the larvae do not pose a direct threat to human health, they can irritate the skin and may be allergenic.
The affected product is Little One’s Ultra Dry Nappy Pants – Walker Size 5 (42pk), and is sold nationwide at Woolworths.
In response, Woolworths has removed the nappies from sale. The supermarket giant and the importer are working with authorities to minimise any risk of spread.
Woolworths told Kidspot: “We were made aware of a report, via DAFF, regarding a packet of Little One’s Ultra Dry Nappy Pants – Walker Size 5 (42pk) found to include Khapra beetle larvae.
“This product is supplied to us through Ontex, who manufacture overseas and import into Australia. As soon as we became aware, we acted swiftly, according to DAFF directions, to remove the product from sale, quarantine it and commence an investigation with DAFF and Ontex.”
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Families who have purchased the nappies are being reassured that there is no need to panic. However, DAFF has advised that the products should not be used, discarded in household bins, or returned to store.
Instead, the nappies and their packaging should be sealed to prevent spread, and the pest hotline contacted on 1800 798 636. Consumers can also visit the DAFF website to report a detection.
No other sizes or products in the Little One’s range have been affected.
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Originally published as Nappy pants warning after shocking discovery in popular supermarket buy
