Danone takes Fonterra to court over botulism scare

Danone has initiated legal proceedings against Fonterra over its precautionary recall of whey protein concentrate in August 2013. The French company has also terminated its existing supply contract with Fonterra.

“This affair illustrates serious failings on Fonterra’s part in applying the quality standards required in the food industry,” Danone wrote in a press release.

Danone is initiating proceedings in the New Zealand High Court, as well as arbitration proceedings in Singapore. It says its aim is “to bring all facts to light and to obtain compensation for the harm it has suffered”.

Fonterra says it is disappointed that Danone has decided to proceed with the legal action but will vigorously defend any proceedings.

“Fonterra stands by its track record of having world-class food safety and quality standards, quality systems and robust testing regimes across all its manufacturing facilities,” Fonterra said in a statement.