PETALING JAYA: Investigations have found that the gummy candy nearly the size of a ping-pong ball violates the labelling requirements stipulated under the Food Regulations 1985 of the Food Act 1983 [Act 281], says the Health Ministry.
The ministry in a statement on Friday (Feb 21) emphasises that the sale of this product is strictly prohibited on all online platforms and in local markets. Enforcement actions, including product seizures, will be carried out in accordance with these regulations.
“Through the Food Safety and Quality Programme, the Ministry would like to inform that the size or shape of food products is not regulated under the Food Regulations 1985 of the Food Act 1983, except for "controlled jelly confectionery."
“Such products with a diameter of 45 millimetres or less must be labelled with the warning: "WARNING: MAY POSE A CHOKING HAZARD" and the statement "NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN UNDER 3 YEARS OLD."
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At the same time, the public, especially parents, are urged to monitor and advise their children to be more cautious when choosing food, particularly those that pose a choking risk. Choking hazards are a significant risk, especially among infants and young children, it said.
“This risk increases when food is not chewed properly or is swallowed whole. Choking incidents are more common with foods that are hard, chewy, small, and round, as they can easily become lodged in the airway.
“Children should always be supervised by parents or guardians when consuming any food,” it added.
The ministry said that it will continue to conduct food safety monitoring and enforcement activities, as well as take preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Consumers are encouraged to contact their nearest District Health Office, State Health Department, or visit the MOH Public Complaint Management System (SISPAA) website and the PKKM Facebook page at the following links should they have any concerns regarding food safety issues or witness any food safety incidents.
Mohammad Fahmi Hafiz Mohammad Fakhruddin, a student at SK Sungai Dua in Butterworth, was reported to be in critical condition at the HPP PICU on Wednesday (Feb 19) after choking on a gummy candy he bought outside the school premises.
The 10-year-old died on Thursday (Feb 20) and was laid to rest on Friday (Feb 21).
