It has been reported that the fake formula was seen on shelves in Iskandar Puteri, Mutiara Rini, Taman Nusa Bestari and Taman Orkid.
The company said, "An extensive market search has confirmed no suspect product except for this specific packaging format in this limited geographic area.”
Only 210 counterfeit packets have been found so far, and investigations will continue until the fakes are completely removed.
The product’s manufacturer, Mead Johnson Nutrition, had provided information based on its own investigation to aid in the retail searches conducted in the last week.
It said, "The searches identified a small percentage of suspect product in a handful of retail outlets within a limited geography in Skudai, Johor Bahru.”
It added that Malaysian authorities were “actively pursuing” the counterfeiting operation, having already raided five premises in the state following complaints from the company.
Consumer consciousness
The company has since released a statement teaching consumers how to spot the fake product, which comes in 1.8kg boxes, each containing three foil packets.
It said buyers should examine the individual foil packets: the genuine product packs look ‘puffy’, while the counterfeits appear to have been vacuum-sealed and have sharp creases on both sides.
Buyers are also advised to call Mead Johnson’s consumer care line at 1800 88 3585 (open between 9 AM and 9 PM daily) should find they had bought the fakes, and they would receive the genuine product as a replacement.
This also applies to customers who have already opened the packaging.
Authorities’ advice
Singapore’s Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) advised residents to show caution when buying food items overseas or online. It is fairly common for citizens to shop in neighbouring Malaysia where prices are cheaper.
It said in a statement: “Consumers have a role in protecting themselves. As a general guide, consumers should purchase food from reputable sources, such as major supermarkets and retailers. Shopping for food overseas or online may be convenient but consumers should exercise caution.
“Consumers must be aware that there may be food safety risks associated with such food items. When in doubt of the source or safety of the food product, do not purchase it.”