A batch of Taiwan black pepper dried bean curd containing a colouring matter not permitted in food
| Issue Date | 6.12.2014 |
|---|---|
| Source of Information | The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) |
| Food Product | Pre-packed black pepper dried bean curd |
| Product Name and Description | Product name: Towfu Cake
|
| Reason For Issuing Alert | The CFS took a sample of the black pepper dried bean curd for testing under a targeted food surveillance project. Results showed that it contained Dimethyl yellow, a non-permitted colouring matter in food under local legislation. Although there have been research results showing that Dimethyl yellow might cause cancer in animal studies, no sufficient evidence has been found to confirm the health effects on humans from dietary intake of this colouring matter. However, for the sake of prudence, the CFS urged consumers not to consume the batch of affected product. |
| Action Taken by the Centre for Food Safety | The CFS has taken follow-up action including issuing warning to the retailer concerned, and instructed the traders concerned to take the affected product off the shelves. The distributor/importer are also required to stop selling the affected product. The CFS will alert the trade and the Taiwan authority, continue to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate follow-up actions. Investigation is still ongoing. |
| Advice to the Trade | Stop selling the affected product. |
| Advice to Consumers | Not to consume the batch of affected product. |
| Further Information |
Centre for Food Safety
Food and Environmental Hygiene Department
2014-12-6