FDA ANNOUNCES RECALL OF MOTHER'S PRIDE AND NATA GEL CANDIES DUE TO CHOKING HAZARD

The FDA is announcing the recall of approximately 16,000 packages of mini-cup gel candies because they represent a choking hazard. This candy, distributed nationwide to retail establishments, is sold under the names of Mother's Pride and NATA, and the label describes the product as a mini-fruit bite. The candy comes in small sealed plastic cups that contain gelatin with or without a chunk of fruit.

These candies contain the ingredient "konjac" (also known as conjac, konnyaku, yam flour, or glucomannan). The Consumer Product Safety Commission staff and the Food and Drug Administration consider this type of candy to pose a serious choking risk, particularly to infants, children and the elderly. Local authorities have reported three children's deaths from choking in the United States associated with this type of jelly candy. There have also been reports of deaths in other countries.

Each jelly cup is about the size of a single-serve coffee creamer. The jelly cups are in a plastic bag or plastic jar. The flavors sold are mango, assorted fruit and lychee. Some of the candy bears warning labels, suggesting that it not be eaten by children under age three.

The FDA contacted Budget Promotions, the Houston, Tex., distributor recalling this product, when it learned that the firm had distributed the mini-cup gel candies. The firm is cooperating with the FDA and is voluntarily recalling this product.

The FDA has issued two previous general warnings against consuming mini-cup gel candies that contain the ingredient "konjac". Although the agency issued an import alert to address importation of these candies in October, 2001, candies imported prior to the import alert are still in the US market. These candies are sold under various brand names, distributed by various companies. The FDA continues to investigate and follow-up this issue.

Budget Promotions urges all consumers to return this product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (281) 495-9887.

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Complete list of Konjac candy recalls

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