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The Customs Authorities warned last week the Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority of a consignment of jelly sweets from Vietnam. Prague company TY ASIA FOOD, s.r.o. attempted to import it to the CR. During the check of the consignment, inspectors found that it contained 365 kg of jelly in plastic cups of various fruit flavours. All batches contained jelling substance carrageenan (E407). However, the European Commission has already in 2004 issued a Decision which bans sale and import of jelly in shape of mini-cups containing additives produced from seaweeds and certain gums. Carrageenan falls into this category. From this reason, CAFIA did not release the consignment to the CR.

The sweets mentioned above are considered to be dangerous as they pose a risk of choking if consumed in an improper manner. This danger is caused by combination of various risk factors, in particular by the shape, size, and the manner of consummation when the jelly is tipped or sucked from the plastic cup. Possible breathing may cause coughing spasms or even choke. Due to additives such as carrageenan, gelatine melts worse in mouth, which even raises the risk. The sweets are unsafe  for adults, but particularly for small children.  

The Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority has already warned of products of such type several times in the past. If consumers come across them in shops, they should not buy them. They can notify the nearest CAFIA Inspectorate of their sale.  

Carrageenan and other food additives made of seaweeds and gums come under approved additives and they can be still added to certain foodstuffs, however, they are not allowed to be added to the sweets mentioned above.