THE results of tests on the iodine content of Nestle baby formula sold in Shanghai will not be released until next week, according to local quality inspection authorities, but the products in question have been removed from shelves of big supermarkets.

The "Golden Growing 3 plus Baby Formula" produced by Heilongjiang-based Shuangcheng Nestle Co Ltd failed to meet national standards for iodine content in a survey conducted by the Zhejiang Provincial Quality Inspection Authorities in mid-May. The news was released to the media on May 25.

Every 100 grams of milk powder for infants and young children is allowed to contain 30-150 micrograms of iodine, according to State standards. The iodine content of Nestle's baby formula was found to be 198 micrograms, slightly higher than the acceptable level.

Nestle is one of the leading baby formula producers in China and this type of milk powder sells well nationwide.

In a statement released May 26, Nestle China attributed the problem to the fluctuations of iodine contained in fresh milk, the main ingredient of the product.

The statement also said that the milk powder was still safe and their new test results indicated the iodine content matched International Food Standards for infants and children.

Children could suffer from goitre, a condition caused by a deficiency or an excess in iodine, medical experts say. But consumers should not panic about the problem.

Retailers have already pulled the baby formula from shelves in Zhejiang, Beijing, Shanghai and other areas, but Nestle hasn't officially ordered the withdrawal of the products. (Star News)