Health Advisory

Following a release issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration, Health Canada is warning parents of premature babies not to feed their child the medicinal supplement, Simply Thick, after 2 unfortunate cases of infant deaths have been linked to the product in the U.S.

Simply Thick is a thickening agent that can be added to liquids such as breast milk or infant formula in order to make them easier to swallow, and is often used for premature infants, to help with swallowing difficulties. It is believed to be the cause of 15 cases of infant necrotizing enterocolitis, which is a serious, and potentially fatal condition that causes inflammation and cell death in the intestines.

The Government of Canada is not currently aware of any similar illnesses in Canada linked to this product, however they are working with US FDA on this issue and are investigating whether there have been any related cases in Canada.

Babies born before 37 weeks are particularly at risk. Health Canada is advising everyone not to feed Simply Thick to premature infants. If you are currently using this product, please stop immediately and contact your health care provider.

For further information visit the Health Canada or the Public Health Agency of Canada websites.