New Zealand to investigate tainted whey products

Authorities in New Zealand say they will conduct a full investigation into the Fonterra milk powder scandal, after the Chinese government stopped importing dairy products from Australia and New Zealand.

Authorities in New Zealand say they will conduct a full investigation into the Fonterra milk powder scandal, after the Chinese government stopped importing dairy products from Australia and New Zealand.

New Zealand's Trade Minister Tim Groser supported the move by China. He told a local TV station that Fonterra's contaminated whey protein was produced last May, but the toxic bacteria, Clostridium Botulinum, was only detected on July 31st this year. On August 2nd, the company reported the discovery to the government.

Meanwhile, Fonterra said so far there were no cases of contamination caused by its milk powder. The company's CEO Theo Spierings will arrive in China on Sunday to meet with companies who use its raw materials.

Fonterra said it will help its clients carry out inspections to ensure any tainted products are taken off the market. The company said it would also work to create public awareness, and promised to refund any contaminated products.