Genetically modified papaya found in Nestle’s instant oatmeal has prompted Russia’s consumer rights protection watchdog, Rospotrebnadzor, to file an administrative violation case against Nestle Russia, RIA Novosti reported on Monday.
According to Rospotrebnadzor, the manufacturer knew about the non-compliance of its Bystrov brand ingredients with the mandatory requirements but did not inform the watchdog.
The violation case was initiated under the Article 37 of Russia’s Federal Law on technical regulation which stipulates that manufacturer should inform the state control authority about any non-compliance “in accordance with its competence within ten days from the date of receipt of this information.”
Russian media reported earlier that Rospotrebnadzor has removed the product from sale.
Nestle’s press service told TASS news agency that it does not use genetically modified ingredients in the production of Bystrov oatmeal. It added that the manufacturer ceased production of the instant cereal with modified papaya and its deliveries from warehouses after discovering a random batch of such goods.
Nestle holds a strong position on Russia’s breakfast cereals market. Its Bystrov porridge brand boasts of offering a full-fledged breakfast and claims to contain instant oat flakes, pieces of dried berries, honey, and nuts.
The company also holds a leading position on the Russian market in instant coffee, cocoa, baby food, and other products.
