FDA ANNOUNCES RECALL OF LIEN HOA FOOD CORP. MINI JELLY SNACK CUPS CANDIES DUE TO CHOKING HAZARD

The FDA is announcing a recall by Lien Hoa Food Corp., Chicago, Ill, of 464 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 northern Illinois and Wisconsin under the "Jojomo" and "Naluwan" brand. The label describes the product as "JM Jojomo" and "Naluwan Nata De Coco Konnyaku Jelly" in all flavors. The candy comes in small creamer sized sealed plastic cups.

"FDA urges consumers not to eat this dangerous product, which is especially risky for children and the elderly," said Dr. Lester M. Crawford, FDA Deputy Commissioner.

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. The packaging, shape, slipperiness, and consistency endow the mini-gel products with a potential to cause choking. 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 8.8 oz. bags that are contained in cases of 30 bags and 1500 gram plastic jars sold in cases of six. Consumers are urged to return this product to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact Lien Hoa Food Corp. at 773-376-1668.

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 detain candy at the port prior to entry. 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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