The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has advised people to not consume a batch of apple juice after it reportedly detected elevated levels of patulin in apples (on October 15).
As a result, the implicated batches of “Ceres 100% Apple Juice” have now being removed from the market.
The move comes after the manufacturer’s in-house testing detected elevated levels of patulin.
“Ceres 100% Apple Juice” Recalled After Elevated Levels Of Patulin In Apples Found
Screenshot courtesy: Ceres
It was International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN) that discovered the increased levels of patulin during the manufacturer’s in-house testing.
They then informed SFA and the product was recalled.
Patulin In Apples Can Lead To Health Issues
This organic compound can be found in fruits such as apples due to fungal contamination before and after harvest.
SFA informed the media that ingestion of large amounts of this compound can lead to nausea, vomiting and gastrointestinal disturbances. It also added that brief exposure without an excessive intake is unlikely to cause any health issues.
In this case, the detected levels of patulin in apples exceed the maximum limit in fruit juices as stated in the Singapore Food Regulations. So, SFA advised those who purchased the apple juice to not drink it and seek medical advice if they have already consumed it or are particularly concerned about their health.
SFA directed the importer Naspac Marketing to recall the compromised batches of “Ceres 100% Apple Juice” and the recall is ongoing.
There is a vast array of branded juices available in the market. But, it is important to judge its safety and health. Here’s what every parent must keep in mind before purchasing preservative juices.
4 Things To Keep In Mind Before Buying Preservative Juices
Buy products without sugar and only opt for 100% fruit juices
While selecting the right juice, opt for the 100 per cent fruit juice without added sugar. Always try to avoid flavoured drinks as they contain only the fruit flavours and no fruit content. They have no nutritional value as they are high on sugar and will only manage to quench your thirst.
Always buy properly packaged fruit juices
If fruit juices are improperly packed, they can encourage the growth of fungi and moulds. They are normally pasteurised with high-heat treatment so that they are free from pathogens, moulds, yeast, and pathogens.
This process extends the shelf-life between 9 to 12 months, depending on the packaging. There are some fruit juices that are cold-pressed and you need to store them properly or else they might get contaminated.
Check the nutritional value of the contents on the packaging
You can look at the list of ingredients and nutritional content to get a true picture of the fruit content. You can also find the sugar quantity and other substances and added preservatives to enhance the flavour. You can also consult with your doctor about these before you make the purchase.
Acidity
Generally, juice that has a low PH (high acidity) will last longer than juice with a high PH. For example, lemon juice (which has a low PH) will have a much longer shelf life than carrot juice. This factor also enables you to understand the shelf life and freshness of fruit juices.
In addition to the shelf life, the calories, and the quality of the juices, it is also crucial to check if and how they may impact your child’s health, specifically their dental health.
How To Protect Your Teeth After Consuming Fruit Juices
Image courtesy: iStock
The British Dental Association says that juice can cause dental harm, but here are some quick ways to combat this.
According to Professor Damien Walmsley, “You will be definitely be damaging your children’s teeth if fruit juices are drunk outside mealtimes. So, it is very important to drink them with meals and never before bedtime.”
- Remember, fruit juices soften the tooth enamel. So, wait for one hour after drinking before you brush your teeth, this will allow your enamel to harden.
- Avoid the flavoured juices as it contains lots of sugar.
- You should never drink juice from the bottle, or give juice to small children in bottles. This will bathe your child’s teeth in juices and also increase the chances of damage.
Chilli Powder Recalled After Cancer-Causing Toxins Detected
In a similar product recall incident, late last month a batch of the chilli powder brand “Earthen Pot” was asked to be removed after high levels of cancer-causing toxins were found.
The batch contained increased levels of aflatoxins. According to WHO, other than cancer, these toxins can lead to birth defects and immunosuppression.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t end here. If consumed in large quantities, it can lead to acute poisoning, which can be life-threatening.
The implicated batches of the chilli powder come with an expiry date of 28 June, 2023, and are available in package sizes of 100g and 250g.
Those who have already purchased the affected products are advised to not consume them and immediately consult a doctor if already consumed.
Source: The Straits Times
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