Singapore Expands Recall of Xiyuguoyuan Walnuts Over Excessive Sweeteners

The Singapore Food Agency has extended its recall of Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut products.

Further to the media release on 24 May 2024, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has extended the recall to include additional batches of Xiyuguoyuan walnut products from China. 

The recall was prompted by the detection of Cyclamate (as Cyclamic Acid) and Acesulfame-K exceeding permitted levels. SFA has directed the importer, Xin Hong Yang International Trading Pte Ltd, to recall the products. The recall is ongoing.

Consumer Health Advisory

Consumers who have consumed the implicated Xiyuguoyuan walnut products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice promptly. 

Symptoms of excessive Cyclamate and Acesulfame-K consumption may include nausea, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Although there are no immediate health risks, prolonged excessive consumption of these sweeteners should be avoided. Consumers may also contact their point of purchase for enquiries and further assistance.

Product Details of  Xiyuguoyuan walnut products

The affected Xiyuguoyuan walnut products are as follows:

• Product Name: Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut
• Weight: 1kg
• Expiry Date: 18.09.2024
• Country of Origin: China
• Product Name: Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut
• Weight: 500g
• Expiry Date: 18.09.2024
• Country of Origin: China

Regulations and Safety Measures

The Singapore Food Regulations prohibit the use of Cyclamate in walnut products and other nuts and seeds.

These regulations permit the use of Acesulfame-K in nuts and seeds but set specific limits that manufacturers must not exceed. Cyclamate and Acesulfame-K are approved food additives, used as artificial sweeteners in various products.

The SFA is conducting proactive sampling and testing of nuts and seeds products in Singapore to ensure compliance with these regulations. Any products found to contain non-permitted levels of sweeteners, such as Cyclamate or excessive Acesulfame-K, will be subject to recall. This precautionary approach aims to protect consumer health and maintain food safety standards.

Ongoing Monitoring and Future Actions

The SFA ensures the safety of food products in the market. As part of this commitment, SFA will continue to monitor and test nuts and seeds products for compliance with food safety regulations. If SFA detects any further non-compliance, they will initiate additional recalls. SFA encourages consumers to stay informed about food recalls and adhere to issued advisories.

For more information, consumers can visit the SFA website or contact the SFA directly.

Image credit: Singapore Food Agency

Reference:

Recall of Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut products from China due to presence of Cyclamate (as Cyclamic Acid), and Acesulfame-K exceeding permitted levels. (2024, June 6). Singapore Food Agency. https://www.sfa.gov.sg/docs/default-source/press-releases/sfa-media-release—updated-media-release-on-the-recall-of-xiyuguoyuan-xinjiang-paper-roasted-walnut.pdf?sfvrsn=1492f494_1