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FSA warns consumers of potentially fatal protein powder

By William Dodds

- Last updated on GMT

Sci-Mx Nutrition was forced to recall three batches of protein powder. Credit: Djavan Rodriguez
Sci-Mx Nutrition was forced to recall three batches of protein powder. Credit: Djavan Rodriguez
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has urged consumers not to use a Sci-Mx Nutrition branded protein powder that was recalled due to it containing potentially fatal levels of caffeine.

Protein powder users have been told not to consume a recently recalled product due to the potentially life-threatening levels of caffeine the packs contain.

On 12 July, Home Bargains recalled 1.5 kg bags of strawberry flavour Sci-Mx Nutrition Ultra Muscle. The product has a best before date of March 2025.

The effected product can be identified by the batch code W110429. Its batch code is situated next to the best before date, with signage now displayed in all retail stores that carry the item.

Following testing of the product it was revealed to contain more than 5,000mg (five grams) of caffeine per serving.

The packaging advised users to consume two servings per day, meaning a daily dose would contain more than 10,000mg (10 grams) of caffeine – a lethal dose for most people. Lethal doses can be as low as three grams for certain people.

Recalled powder potentially fatal

FSA head of incidents Tina Potter said that anyone who has bought the recalled product should not risk consuming.

“High levels of caffeine can cause anxiety, sleeplessness, agitation, palpitations, diarrhoea and restlessness, and individuals with a mental health condition can experience worsened psychosis​,” Potter warned.

In this case, the exceptionally high levels of caffeine could mean the consequences are even more severe and perhaps even fatal​.”

This is not the only recall of Sci-Mx protein powder that has been found to contain unsafe levels of caffeine, with two further batches recalled.

Batch W110430 and W110431 included 540mg and 17mg of caffeine per serving respectively.

Customers that purchased the product have been advised to contact the Sci-Mx Nutrition customer helpline to arrange a full refund.

In other news, the lack of a legal definition for vegan products is causing potential allergen risks,​ according to a new report.

Related topics Food Safety Proteins, non-dairy

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