Razor Bits Found in Baby Food in England; Extortion Suspected
Police are investigating at least 16 incidents in which baby food bought at grocery stores has contained glass shards, pieces of razor blades, thumbtacks and caustic soda, news reports said today.
Scotland Yard said it was coordinating a nationwide police inquiry, but it refused to give details.
The Daily Mail reported today that blackmailers apparently were trying to extort money from supermarkets and food companies. It said several supermarket chains and food manufacturers had received threats.
Manufacturers say their investigations have determined that products are not being spiked during production and distribution.
One manufacturer, Heinz Co. Ltd., warned parents to be vigilant when feeding their children canned and bottled food.
Spiked jars were first found last month in London and in the central cities of Bedford and Leicester, news reports said. Further cases have since been reported across southern England.
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