FDA ANNOUNCES A RECALL BY ANHING CORPORATION OF MINI JELLY SNACK CUPS CANDIES DUE TO CHOKING HAZARD

The FDA is announcing the recall by Anhing Corporation, Los Angeles, California, of Rolin Brand "Lychee Nata De Coco Jelly" because this product presents a choking hazard. These candies are distributed nationwide. The candies are packaged in small sealed plastic cups. Each mini Jelly cup is about the size of a single-serve coffee creamer.

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 six 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.

The candy is sold in either 10.5 oz bags in cases of 30 bags, or in 53.5 oz. tubs with 6 tubs to a case. Anhing Corporation has requested a recall through distributors and retailers to consumers. Consumers are urged to return this product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 323-221-8003.

In August and October 2001, the FDA issued general warnings against consuming mini-cup gel candies that contain the ingredient "konjac". In December 2001 and January 2002 two other firms recalled gel candies. In October 2001, the agency issued an Import Alert to prevent these candies from entering the country. Import Alerts identify problem commodities and communicate guidance to FDA field offices and the importing community for detention of products which appear to be in violation of the law. However, candies imported prior to the import alert are still in the US market.

These candies are sold under various brand names and are distributed by various companies. The FDA continues to investigate and follow-up this issue.

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Complete list of Konjac candy recalls

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