Sunright tapioca balls found to have traces of unapproved additive, says AVA

AN unapproved food additive has led to the recall of a brand of tapioca balls that may be used in desserts and drinks here like bubble tea.

The tapioca balls, sold under the brand Sunright, were found to have traces of maleic acid by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While occasional consumption at the levels detected does not pose any significant health risk, long term consumption at high levels of the acid can lead to kidney damage.

Although the additive was found in Taiwanese goods such as fish paste products, yam balls and flat rice noodles, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) said that only Sunright brand tapioca balls were imported into Singapore.