Jakarta, IO – Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia have officially recalled Mie Sedaap-branded instant noodle. Singapore even warned its citizens not to consume Mie Sedaap of the Korean Spicy Soup, Korean Spicy Chicken, Soto, and Chicken Curry flavours which it said was contaminated by ethylene oxide, a carcinogenic substance (capable of causing cancer).
“Those who have consumed the product and have concerns about their health are advised to seek medical advice immediately,” alerted the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), adding that ethylene oxide is a pesticide not permitted for use in food. “It can be used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination.”
Under Singapore’s food regulations, ethylene oxide is only allowed for use in the sterilization of spices up to a residue limit of 50 parts per million. While there is no immediate risk to consuming food contaminated with low levels of ethylene oxide, it is feared that long-term exposure could cause health problems.