The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 11) urged the public not to consume some batches of blackcurrant fruit drink as there might be changes in the appearance and taste of the batches of the product concerned prior to their expiry dates. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batches of the product immediately if they possess them.

     Details of the product are as follows:

Product name: Blackcurrant Fruit Cordial Bottles
Brand: Ribena
Place of origin: Malaysia
Importer: Suntory Beverage & Food Hong Kong Limited
Packing size: 1 Litre per bottle
Best-before Dates: August 17, 2021 to October 16, 2021

     A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS was notified by the product's importer that it is recalling the abovementioned batches of the product as the appearance and taste of the affected batches of the product might change prior to their expiry dates. The importer is conducting an investigation on the root cause of the change of the product concerned."

     The spokesman said that upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately followed up with the importer concerned. According to information provided by the company, it had already removed from shelves and stopped sale of the affected batches of the product, and initiated a recall. Members of the public may call the company's hotline at 2529 4722 during office hours or email to hkenquiry@suntory.com for enquiries about the recall.

     The CFS urged the public not to consume the affected batches of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batches of the product immediately if they possess them. People should seek medical treatment if they feel unwell after consuming the particular products.

     The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. Investigation is ongoing.

Ends/Wednesday, November 11, 2020
Issued at HKT 20:50

NNNN