Westland Milk Products says, on the heels of Fonterra's revelation last week, it too has found "minute traces" of DCD, or dicyandiamide, in its milk products.
Westland says after receiving advice late last week from the Ministry of Primary Industries of the discovery by Fonterra of traces of DCD in some of its milk products, Westland undertook its own testing through an independent laboratory.
The tests revealed "minute traces" of DCD in samples produced before November 1 last year.
Westland said the evidence indicates product made after November 1 is free from DCD.
“While we are assured by independent health authorities and the New Zealand Government that DCD is not a food safety risk, we are very aware that for many of our customers any residue in milk products is undesirable," Westland chief executive Rod Quin said.
"Some of our customers in Asia have already requested tests for DCD following the Ministry of Primary Industries announcement last week.”
Quin said Westland was now conducting additional testing in line with customer and government requirements and will report the results to customers as soon as possible.
“The best way to allay our customers’ fears is with accurate information,” Quin said. “We will continue to work with the New Zealand dairy industry, the Ministry of Primary Industries and the Government to reassure suppliers, customers and stakeholders that DCD is not harmful to human health and that every step to remedy this situation and prevent its ongoing occurrence is being taken.”
He said a minority of Westland’s shareholders had used DCD with most use happening outside peak milk production periods.
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