The information that whey protein in Fonterra milk could cause botulism was recently denied by the Vietnam Competition Authority (VCA) based on test results released by New Zealand authority.

Results show that the bacteria found in whey protein WPC80 is Clostridium sporogenes instead of Clostridium botulium. This type of bacteria could not cause botulism and there were no previous medical reports regarding its effect on users’ health.

Tests had been conducted since early August following information about Fonterra’s products that could be contaminated with the Clostridium botulium bacteria.

The results released by the New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) were evaluated through 195 tests which took place in many laboratories in New Zealand and the US.

VCA will continue to collaborate with relevant parties to update the latest information to consumers. The department also recommends Vietnamese customers to take the initiative to share information about the case to others.