A bunch of lactose intolerants may find themselves rushing to the loo in Hong Kong after the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) announced on Saturday that dairy has been found in a soy drink. Gasp, indeed.
Through its routine “Food Incident Surveillance System”, which appears to be simply checking the news, the Hong Kong authorities learnt that Vitasoy Coconut Soy Drink has been recalled in Australia and New Zealand as it was found to contain the undeclared allergen of dairy.
“People who are allergic to milk may have immunologic response like vomiting, diarrhoea and rash upon consumption of food containing this allergen. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock may even develop,” a CFS spokesperson warned.
Anyone who finds themselves in that rather gross and uncomfortable boat is advised to stop consuming the product immediately (duh) and seek medical help if needed.
Shops and traders have also been asked to refrain from selling all batches and all dates of the “soy” drink.
“Upon learning of the incident, the CFS has immediately taken follow-up actions, including contacting the local manufacturer and major retailers and conducting sales checks at local retail outlets, to get more information on the sale situation of the affected product,” the spokesperson said.
Under the Food and Drugs Composition and Labelling Regulations, officials at Vitasoy could face a maximum penalty of a HKD50,000 fine and six months’ imprisonment.
Yeah. That’s what you get for screwing with the lactose-free community!
Photo: Maureen Didde
