SFA orders recall of Gold Plum Vinegar due to presence of undeclared allergen
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Consumers who have purchased the affected product, and who have known allergies to sulphites, should not consume the vinegar.
PHOTO: SFA/FACEBOOK
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SINGAPORE – A brand of vinegar from China is being recalled following the detection of sulphur dioxide, which was not listed as an ingredient, among its contents.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has ordered company Goy Chiap Hin, the importer of Gold Plum Vinegar, to recall the product, the agency said on Sept 18.
In recommended concentrations, sulphur dioxide may be used in the food and beverage industry because of its antioxidant and preservative properties. It does not generally pose a health threat to consumers, except for those who are allergic to it.
When ingested in high levels by intolerant individuals, it can cause an allergic reaction which may cause symptoms such as hives, itchiness, stomach ache, diarrhoea and vomiting.
The SFA said that under Singapore’s food regulations, products containing ingredients that are known to cause hypersensitivity must declare the ingredients on food packaging labels to protect consumers who may be allergic to them.
“All ingredients in pre-packed food should also be specified on the product label in descending order of the proportions by weight in which they are present,” the agency said.
Consumers who have purchased the affected product, and who have known allergies to sulphites, should not consume the vinegar, which has an expiry date of June 30, 2027. If they have already done so, they are encouraged to seek medical advice if they have concerns about their health.
Customers are also encouraged to contact the retailer they purchased the product from for any further inquiries.
