(Updated on 31 Dec 2024) Undeclared allergen (milk) found in imported bottled coconut drink
Product: Fresh Coconut Juice, Bottled coconut drink, (Updated on 31 Dec 2024) Undeclared allergen (milk) found in imported bottled coconut drink
Brand/company: 鐵尺本館 (English brand name not available)
- Product family
- Food & Grocery
- Product type
- Beverage
- Issue
- Allergen
- Audience
- Allergy-sensitive consumers
Reason: The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Tsuen Wan for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained milk, an allergen, but it was not declared on the product's food label. People who are allergic to milk may have an immunologic response like vomiting, diarrhoea and rash upon consumption of food containing this allergen. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock may even develop. As for other members of the public, generally speaking, they would not be subject to such reactions when the food in question is consumed. The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require that all prepackaged food for sale in Hong Kong should list out the food ingredients in its list of ingredients. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.
Consumer action: Members of the public who are allergic to milk should not consume the batch of product concerned. Those who feel unwell after consuming it should seek medical treatment.