The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) today invited the public and the trade to send in their views on the proposed amendments to the Food & Drugs (Composition & Labelling) Regulations aiming to strengthen regulation of konjac-containing jelly confectionery.
The CFS made the proposals after reviewing the potential choking risks associated with the consumption of mini-cup konjac-containing jelly confectionery products, the regulatory practices of major economies concerning such products, and conducting a risk assessment.
It proposed that, if a mini-cup jelly confectionery product is with a height or width of 45mm or less, it shall not contain konjac.
Another proposal is to require all prepackaged konjac-containing jelly confectionery products to carry a label with a warning statement about the prevention of choking hazard in both English and Chinese: “Caution: Do not swallow whole. Elderly and children must consume under supervision.”
The CFS explained that while the Codex Alimentarius Commission considers konjac a safe food additive, improper consumption of mini-cup konjac jellies can increase the choking risk, particularly for children and elderly people, due to their unique product design and firm texture.
It has consulted the Expert Committee on Food Safety and engaged the trade through a meeting and a forum.
The Government initially proposes that the amendments to ban the sale of mini-cup konjac-containing jelly confectionery products with a height or width of 45mm or less, will take effect six months after passage of the amended regulations.
As for the labelling requirements for all konjac-containing jelly confectionery products, the Government proposes that they will come into operation 12 months after passage of the amended regulations.
Additionally, the CFS, in collaboration with the Education Bureau, has issued a letter to schools recommending that they cease selling or providing mini-cup konjac-containing jelly confectionery products with a height or width of 45mm or less in tuck shops and canteens.
Members of the public and the trade are welcome to offer their views on or before June 8.
