Bacteria fear over gripe water.

A COMMONLY-sold gripe water is being taken off the shelves after fears it may be contaminated with bacteria.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a drug alert over Woodward's Gripe Water, which is alcohol and sugar-free.

It is made by Seton Products Ltd and the affected batches are numbered 162, 174, 175, 178, 181, 182 and 183.

The recall of the 150ml bottles is a precautionary measure due to concerns about potential bacterial contamination in the water used by the firm's contract manufacturer, William Ransom & Son plc, at With am, Essex.

The MHRA said in a statement: "Companies are being asked to quarantine any remaining stock and return it to their supplier for credit.

"It must be stressed that there is a very low risk that children will be affected.

"However, if your child starts to feel unwell after taking this product, you should seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor.

"If you have this product at home, you should not use it and take it back to where you purchased it."

This issue came to light on November 21, during a routine inspection of Ransom's manufacturing plants.

Their licence for the plant has been suspended until the problem is rectified.