The Centre for Food Safety (CFS)

Prepackaged dried mushroom and prepackaged date

Product name: "好棧盒裝日式花菇" (dried mushrooms) (Product name not available in English)

Place of origin: Japan

Retailer: 好棧食品有限公司 (Company name not available in English)

Net weight: 0.5 catty per pack

Best-before date: December 31, 2022

Product name: "原色棗皇" (dates) (Name not available in English)

Place of origin: China

Retailer: Premier Food Ltd

Net weight: 450 grams per pack

Best-before date: December 30, 2022

Two samples from the two retail outlets were tested under the routine Food Surveillance Programme of the CFS. The test results showed that the dried mushroom sample and the date sample contained sulphur dioxide at levels of 31 parts per million (ppm) and 65 ppm, respectively. Although the levels are within the legal limits, the functional class and name of the additive were not declared on the food labels.

Sulphur dioxide is a commonly used preservative in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and salted fish products. Sulphur dioxide is water soluble, and most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, susceptible individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience breathing difficulties, headaches and nausea after consumption.

The CFS has informed the vendors concerned of the irregularities. The retailers concerned have initiated a recall on the affected batches of the products according to the instructions of the CFS. Members of the public may call their hotlines at 3188 3141 (for dried mushroom) / 2291 6216 (for date) during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the products concerned.

Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence.

Stop using or selling the product concerned immediately if they possess it.

Not to consume the affected product, especially individuals who are allergic to sulphur dioxide, if they have bought any.

The CFS press release

Enquiries about the recall can be made to the hotlines of the importers at 3188 3141 (for dried mushroom) / 2291 6216 (for date) during office hours.