UAE Authorities Recall Baby Gripe Water Due to Undisclosed Alcohol Content

The Emirates Drug Establishment and the Dubai Health Authority have issued a recall for a batch of Babies’ Magic Tea brand Baby Sleep Gripe Water. This action was taken after the discovery of undeclared alcoholic substances within the product. The product, also known as Children’s Sleep Gripe Water, is marketed as a dietary supplement intended to alleviate colic and gas, and to aid in infant sleep. Its packaging also states that the supplement can relieve constipation, acid reflux, and fussiness. The product was prescribed for babies older than two weeks.

The recall was announced under Circular No. 45/2026, with authorities citing the product’s absence of valid marketing authorization in the UAE. Consumers, parents, and caregivers are strongly advised to cease using the product immediately. They should either dispose of it or return it to the point of purchase for a refund.

A circular from the DHA has directed healthcare facilities and medical practitioners to adhere to the instructions provided by the Emirates Drug Establishment. The specific batch number and expiry date for the recalled product were not disclosed.

This recall follows a voluntary action by Pacific Health Sciences in the United States, which recalled one lot of its 4oz bottles earlier this month, as reported by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA testing of lot 25122bw revealed the presence of ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol, which were not listed on the product's label. The measured levels indicated approximately 8.3% ethanol, 0.35% methanol, and 0.48% isopropanol. The FDA noted that these substances could pose a risk depending on the quantity ingested and the infant's age and body weight.

The FDA further explained that organic alcohols like ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol are known to impair central nervous system function. Infant exposure to ethanol has been associated with long-term developmental issues. Even the amounts suggested on the product's packaging could lead to drowsiness, incoordination, behavioral changes, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Ingesting higher quantities could escalate the risk of respiratory depression and other severe adverse health outcomes.