The Health Ministry has mandated an instant halt to selling ice cream flavored like cough syrup.
This is in response to social media posts, including ice cream ads from a nearby chain.
The ministry claimed that after inspecting locations where the product was being sold. They discovered that cough syrup under the “Pei Pa Koa” brand had been added to the ice cream in order to give it flavor.
Besides, according to the ministry’s Drug Control Authority, cough syrup is registered under the Traditional category.
Additionally, it said that food combined with medication cannot be prepared or sold by the Food Act of 1983.
If found guilty, the punishment could be up to five years in prison, a fine of no more than RM20,000, or both.
“All premises have been ordered to stop selling the product.
“All advertisers, including e-commerce and social media platforms, are reminded to ensure food products there adhere to the Food Act 1983.
“The public is also advised to pay more attention towards food safety matters alongside being careful when purchasing food products that could be mixed with substances that are unsuitable or unsafe for consumption,” it said on Tuesday (30 July).
Customers who have concerns about the safety of food goods can consult the Public Complaints Management System website, district and state health authorities. And also, the ministry’s Food Safety and Quality Programme social media pages, according to the ministry.
The company declared in a statement that, under the ministry’s recommendation. So, they will promptly remove the Pei Pa Koa-flavored ice cream from sale.
“We’re really sorry for any hassle this might cause and we appreciate your understanding,” it said.