Packaging Digest
Kellogg cereal problem resolved, says FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a statement regarding the recent problems with four of Kellogg’s cereal brands. The matter started in June, when a number of consumers reported off flavor and odor, which prompted Kellogg to launch a voluntary recall of the products.
In the following press release issued on August 6, the FDA stated that it now considers the matter resolved:
The following questions and answers provide additional information that may be of interest to consumers.
What Was the Problem?
In June, some consumers reported that several Kellogg Company brands of cereal -- Corn Pops, Honey Smacks, Froot Loops, and Apple Jacks -- on U.S. store shelves had a bad odor and/or taste.
What Caused the Problem?
It appears that the cereals were packaged in cereal boxes with waxed paper liners that imparted bad taste and odor to the food. The wax paper liners appear to be the source of the problem.
How Was the Problem Discovered?
Approximately 50 consumers complained to the Kellogg Company about the off taste and odor of the cereals, including several who reported experiencing ill effects after eating one of the products.
What Did Kellogg Do in Response to the Problem?
After becoming aware of the problem, Kellogg immediately isolated all suspect wax paper liner materials, conducted chemical testing on the liner materials, keeping reserve samples of what they tested, and then destroyed all the remaining suspect liner material so that it could not make its way back into production. Kellogg recalled all affected cereals and conducted an extensive root cause analysis.
How Did FDA Learn of the Problem?
The problem was reported to FDA by the Kellogg Company on June 24.
What Did FDA Do in Response to the Problem?
FDA immediately launched an investigation. The agency worked with the Kellogg Company to ensure that appropriate notification of the recall was issued to the public; inspected the manufacturing plant of the cereal itself; reviewed the root cause analysis conducted by Kellogg; and independently evaluated the hazard the problem presented to consumer health, concluding that the probability of serious adverse health consequences was remote. FDA continues to monitor the recall in collaboration with Kellogg.
Is the Problem Resolved?
Based on all available information, FDA has concluded that this problem has been resolved. On June 25, Kellogg recalled all of the affected cereals1. FDA has received no reports of additional consumer complaints about an off taste and odor in the products.
Was Anybody Hurt?
No serious illnesses or injuries were reported to FDA by Kellogg or by consumers. Kellogg reported that five consumers complained of effects including nausea, vomiting, and mouth numbness. None reported seeking medical attention, and all reported that the effects resolved within a day.
Are Waxed Papers Legal and Safe to Use in Food Packaging?
SOURCE: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Tel:886-2-28941823 Fax:886-2-28941837 E-mail:viya@packsourcing.com
Copyright Notice © 2015 New Insight Publishing Ltd.. All rights reserved.
Powered by Packsourcing