‘Swelling of airways’: TGA recalls vitamins and perinatal products over dangerous potassium iodine error

Batches of various vitamin products have been recalled over issues with excessive or insufficient the levels of potassium iodine.

Too much iodine is toxic, and in the worst cases can cause the swelling of airways, cyanosis — a blueish discolouration of the skin due to poor circulation — a weak pulse, or coma, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recall said.

In mild cases, too much iodine can cause diarrhoea, a burning sensation in the mouth, fever, nausea and vomiting.

Those getting too little iodine may become deficient.

Vitamin powders for children and adults, as well as hard capsules for pregnant people were affected by the recall.

Pregnant people and those with an underlying medical condition such as thyroid disease have been specifically urged by the TGA to speak to a health professional if they believe they have been taking the affected batches of recalled products.

Only certain batches of the products have ben affected by the iodine issue, and can be identified by their expiry dates — all of which are January 2027 — and by their batch numbers.

Orthoplex MagGI Restore 300g by Bio Concepts: batch number 42660 was affected.

Orthoplex Pure Children’s Essentials 250g by Bio Concepts: batch number 43268 was affected.

NaturoBest Preconception Multi for Women by NRC Nutrition: batch number 42469 was affected.

EverNatal capsules by Naternal Vitamins: batch number 43311 was affected.

“If you have any of the affected batch numbers, please stop using the product immediately,” TGA said.

Affected stock can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund or credit.

Impacted consumers can alternatively contact the suppliers — Bio Concepts, NRC Nutrition, and Naternal Vitamins — for a refund.