FDA ANNOUNCES RECALLS OF MORE MINI JELLY SNACK CUPS CANDIES DUE TO CHOKING HAZARD

The FDA is announcing recalls from G. L. Food Wholesale Inc., City of Industry, Calif. and Philippine Foodtrade Corporation, Vernon, CA of 100 cases of mini jelly candies (or mini-cup gel candy) because these products present a choking hazard. The product is distributed to retail establishments throughout southern California under the "Sugarland" brand. The label describes the product as "Jellyace Buko Pandan." The candy comes in small sealed plastic cups.

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

The candy is sold in 10.5 oz bags that are contained in cases of 30 bags. Consumers are urged to return this product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact G.L. Food Wholesale, Inc at 626-855-5391 and Philippine Foodtrade Corporation at 323-585-5778.

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

This type of candy is sold under various brand names and are distributed by various companies. The FDA continues to investigate this issue.

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