BCN Trading Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Ginger

SafetyAlerts

December 9, 2003

BCN Trading Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Dried Ginger (SafetyAlerts) - BCN Trading Inc. of South Plainfield, NJ is recalling 5.25 oz. package and 7 oz. plastic tubs of Asian Boy Brand Dried Ginger because the product contains undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.

The Asian Boy Brand Dried Ginger, a product of Vietnam, was distributed to retail stores in NJ, NY, FL, MD, VA, CT, MA, OH and PA in an uncoded 5.25 oz. package and 7 oz. plastic tub. The recall was initiated after it was discovered through routine sampling by Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services inspectors that the product containing sulfites was distributed in packaging that did not declare the presence of sulfites. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites. Analysis of the Asian Boy Brand Dried Ginger revealed that it contained greater than 10 mg. of sulfites per serving. Distribution of the product has been suspended until FDA and BCN Trading Inc. are certain that the problem has been corrected. Consumers who have purchased 5.25 oz. package or 7 oz. plastic tubs of Asian Boy Brand Dried Ginger can return the product to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 908-757-2500.