Undeclared Sulfites in “Preserved Fruit”

CONTACT: FOR RELEASE:
Jessica Chittenden Immediately, Tuesday
518-457-3136 September 18, 2007

***CONSUMER ALERT***
Undeclared Sulfites in “Preserved Fruit”

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker today alerted consumers that Fung Shing Int’l Inc., located at 5629 56th Drive, Maspeth, NY 11378 is recalling “Preserved Fruit” due to the presence of undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites may run the risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume this product.

The recalled “Preserved Fruit” is packaged in an uncoded 2.5 ounce clear plastic container. It was sold nationwide. According to the label, the product is made in Taiwan.

Routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the product contained high levels of sulfites which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date to this Department in connection with this problem. Consumers who have purchased “Preserved Fruit” should return it to the place of purchase.

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