Undeclared peanuts found in oatmeal manufactured in Taiwan (with photo)

A kind of pre-packaged oatmeal, manufactured in Taiwan, has been found to contain an allergen, peanut, which was not declared on the product's food label.

A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) today (September 19) advised consumers who are allergic to peanuts to refrain from eating this particular product. The trade should also stop selling it immediately.

Product details are as follows:

Product name: Oats & Job's Tear Powder
Agent: Metro Alliance Ltd
Place of origin: Taiwan
Best before date: December 5, 2013
Packing size: 240 grams (eight 30g packets)

"The sample was collected from a branch of a local chain supermarket for testing under the regular food surveillance programme. The test results showed that the sample contained peanuts.

"Peanut is a known food allergen. Those who are allergic to it may develop symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, asthma and rash upon consumption. In severe cases anaphylactic shock may even develop," the spokesman said.

He said warning letters have been issued to the supermarket and agent concerned. The trade has also been alerted to stop selling the affected product.

CFS staff conducted investigations at the supermarket concerned and found the product was no longer available for sale.

"The agent indicated to the CFS that a product recall is under way. For enquiries about the recall, members of the public may call the company's telephone hotline (2881 8518) during office hours," the spokesman said.

The spokesman advised consumers who have bought the particular product and are allergic to peanuts to stop eating it, regardless of the batch. People should seek medical treatment if they feel unwell after eating the food.

Ends/Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Issued at HKT 19:43