Reports of Kidney Failure Prompt Product’s Recall
A Massachusetts company is recalling a Chinese herb formula after federal testing found some of the product contaminated with a chemical that can destroy human kidneys.
BMK International of Wellesley, Mass., said it was recalling Neo Concept Aller Relief after being informed by the Food and Drug Administration that the product contained trace amounts of aristolochic acid. The product is sold for use in clearing congested sinuses.
For the record:
12:00 a.m. Feb. 3, 2001 For the Record
Los Angeles Times Saturday February 3, 2001 Home Edition Part A Part A Page 5 Foreign Desk 2 inches; 53 words Type of Material: Correction
Herbal formula--A story in the Valley Edition on Jan. 20 incorrectly stated that an herb formula was being recalled because of reports of kidney failure. BMK International of Wellesley, Mass., voluntarily recalled the product after the Food and Drug Administration found the formula contained a chemical that could harm a person’s kidneys. No illnesses have been reported.
The chemical is highly toxic to the kidneys and can cause cancer. The FDA stopped imports of the herb family Aristolochia after reports of kidney failure from Britain and Belgium. Other Chinese herbal products also have been recalled. No illnesses have been attributed to the products in the United States.
BMK International said Neo Concept Aller Relief was distributed nationwide to retail sellers and licensed health care professionals. Its packages contain 30 or 90 capsules with lot numbers 003480 and 006480.
Customers should return the product to the place of purchase for a refund. People with questions can contact the company at (781) 235-9999.
