SFA recalling more batches of roasted walnut product from China

SINGAPORE - The authorities are recalling additional batches of walnuts from China after food additive acesulfame-K was found above permitted levels.

The affected product, Xiyu­guo­yuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut, also contained another type of food additive called cyclamate, said the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on June 6.

The 500g and 1kg products were produced on March 24, 2024, and March 25, 2024, respectively.

The SFA has directed the importer, Hong Xin Da, to recall the affected products.

The recall is ongoing.

The SFA had ordered a recall for the same products earlier on May 24.

Both cyclamate and acesulfame-K are permitted food additives that are used as artificial sweeteners and are approved for use in certain food products such as soft drinks and canned fruits.

However, the use of cyclamate is currently not allowed in walnuts as well as other nut and seed products.

The use of acesulfame-K is allowed in nut and seed products, but only up to a limit as stated in the Singapore Food Regulations.

While there are no immediate health risks from consuming walnuts and other nut and seed products with cyclamate and acesulfame-K, prolonged excessive consumption of both sweeteners is not advisable.

As part of a precautionary measure, the SFA said that it is currently conducting proactive sampling and testing of nut and seed products in Singapore and will order the recall of products found to contain non-permitted sweeteners or exceeding the permitted level of sweeteners.

Those who ate the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice.

For inquiries, consumers may contact their point of purchase, said the food agency.