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Richin Trading Inc. Announces Recall of Sun Wave Brand and Don Empire Brand Candies Due to Choking Hazard

NEWS RELEASE



Contact:  Richin Trading Inc.
          (888) 308-8889

For Immediate Release

February 8, 2002 - Alhambra, CA -- Richin Trading Inc. is announcing the recall of mini-cup gel candies because they represent a choking hazard. This candy has been distributed nationwide to retail establishments and distributors. It is sold under two brands: Sun Wave and Don Empire. The products sold under the Sun Wave brand may have one or more of the following descriptive labels: (1) "Mini Fruity Gels", (2) "Mini Fruit Jelly", and (3) "Lichee Jelly." Products under the Don Empire have only one descriptive label: (1) "Konnyaku Coconut Jelly Lichee Flavor Jelly Cup" (2) "Lychee Flavor Jelly." The manufacturer as listed for the Sun Wave brand is Sun Mark Industrial Corp. The manufacturer as listed for the Don Empire brand is Don Empire Enterprises Co., Ltd., Changhus City, Taiwan. The candy comes in small sealed plastic cups that contain gelatin with a chunk of fruit.

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. Local authorities have reported four 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 Sun Wave Brand jelly cups are in a plastic bag (10.6 oz.), or plastic jar (1500g). The flavors sold are Lichee, Assorted Fruit, Mango, Peach and Taro. The Don Empire Brand Lichee Flavor Jelly Cups are in a plastic bag (6 oz. and 10 oz.) or Little Kid Plastic Jar. The candy bears warning labels stating, "Warning/Choking Hazard! Do not try to swallow whole! Take only in small sites and must be chewed carefully, not suitable for children under 5 years old." All of the products are under recall.

The FDA contacted Richin Trading 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.

Richin Trading Inc. urges all consumers to return this product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Customer Service at the company at (888) 308-8889.

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Complete list of Konjac candy recalls

FDA/Website Management Staff
Web page created by tg 2002-FEB-14.