FDA ALERTS PUBLIC AGAINST CONJAC CANDY CHOKING HAZARD

The Food and Drug Administration is announcing a recall by Thomas Diaz, Inc., of Toa Baja, Puerto Rico of 1,500 cartons of Fruzel assorted Natural Fruit Jelly Candy because these products present a choking hazard. The product is distributed to wholesale and retail establishments throughout Puerto Rico under the " Neo USA" brand.

The mini jelly candies come in assorted flavors. Each mini jelly cup is about the size of single-serve coffee creamer. The candies are packaged in 16.5 gram jars with 88 units per jar. These candies contain the ingredient "konjac" (also known as conjac, konnyaku, yam flour, or glucomannan). The Food and Drug Administration and the Consumer Product Safety Commission staff 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.
"FDA continues to warn consumers about this product, which poses a risk that must not be tolerated," said Dr. Lester M. Crawford, FDA Deputy Commissioner. Consumers are urged to return this product to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may call Thomas Diaz, Inc., at (787) 784-5606.

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. 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.

###

Spanish version | Complete list of Konjac Candy Recalls

Media Contacts   |   FDA News Page   |   FDA Home Page

Office of Public Affairs
Web page uploaded by jch 2002-JUL-10.