Further recall of China walnut products over use of prohibited sweetener

SINGAPORE: The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Thursday (Jun 6) extended a recall for additional batches of Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut products from China. 

The implicated products contain cyclamate and excessive amounts of acesulfame K.

Cyclamate and acesulfame K are permitted food additives used as artificial sweeteners and can be used in certain food products such as soft drinks and canned fruits, SFA said previously. 

However, the use of cyclamate in walnuts as well as other nut and seed products is currently not allowed.

The use of acesulfame-K for nuts and seeds products is also permitted up to a maximum limit as stated in the Singapore Food Regulations.

The extended recall covers additional batches of the Xiyuguoyuan Xinjiang Paper Roasted Walnut products which have an expiry date of Sep 18, 2024. 

The affected products are sold in 500g packs and 1kg boxes.

SFA has directed the importer, Xin Hong Yang International Trading, to recall the implicated products. The recall is ongoing.

While there are no immediate health risks from consuming walnuts and other nuts and seeds products found to contain cyclamate and acesulfame K, prolonged excessive consumption of both sweeteners should be avoided, SFA said last month. 

"Nonetheless, SFA is taking a precautionary approach, and is currently conducting proactive sampling and testing of nuts and seeds products in Singapore."

The agency had also said it would initiate recalls of affected products that contain non-permitted sweeteners such as cyclamate or excessive amounts of permitted sweeteners.

"Consumers who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice," said SFA, adding that they can contact the retailers they purchased the products from if they have any enquiries.