The Consumers Association of Penang has called upon the Ministry of Health to immediately recall winter melon strips from the market. At the same time, consumers should refrain from eating winter melon strips until the authorities can ensure that it is safe for consumption.
Sulphur dioxide is used as a preservative owing to its antimicrobial properties. As a preservative, it maintains the appearance of the fruit and prevents rotting. However, sulphur dioxide can trigger an attack in individuals with asthma. Excessive levels of sulphite in food could also result in allergic reactions in individuals who are hypersensitive to sulphite with symptoms such as hives, itchiness, stomach ache, diarrhoea and vomiting.
This is not the first time that Malaysian produce was rejected in foreign countries. Following are some incidences that have been reported: In 2017, China rejected fruits from Cameron Highlands due to the presence of living modified organism .*