SFA has detected benzoic acid at levels exceeding the regulatory limit for sauces stated in the Singapore Food Regulations in Hand Flower Brand Soy Sauce.
In addition, the use of benzoic acid is not declared on the food packaging label. As a precautionary measure, SFA has directed the importer, Heng Yoon Trading Pte Ltd, to recall the implicated product.
The recall is ongoing.
Under the Singapore Food Regulations, only permitted food additives with levels within the maximum levels are allowed for use in food.
Here is what the product looks like:
Implicated Product
Product name Hand Flower Brand Soy Sauce
“Batch number: KSSO 125 Expiry Date: 26/07/2025′
Country of origin: Malaysia
Importer: Heng Yoon Trading Pte Ltd
Once off consumption of the affected product is unlikely to be of food safety concern, especially because soy sauce is not a staple food consumed at high levels.
Consumers who have consumed the implicated product and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice. Consumers may contact their point of purchase for enquiries.