Contamination of Mama's Own brand palm oil with Sudan IV dye

Monday 8 November 2004

Food Alert: for Action

Ref: 57/2004 (England): 59/2004 (Scotland)

Two varieties of Mama's Own brand palm oils have been found to be contaminated with the illegal dye, Sudan IV. So far, the following types of Mama's Own brand palm oils are known to be contaminated:
Mama's Own Pure Palm Oil ' 500ml 'best before' Nov 2005
Mama's Pure Zomi Palm Oil ' 500ml 'best before' 10/02/2005

Sudan IV is not a permitted colour under the Colours in Food Regulations 1995. It is considered to be a genotoxic carcinogen and its presence, at any level, is not permitted in foodstuffs for any purpose.

Both products are labelled as 'Product of West Africa' and imported by:
Adwensa Enterprises (also trades as Mama's Own Foods),
18 Guide Post Square
Ardwick
Manchester
M13 9EA

The Agency has no details of distribution outlets. This product appears to be distributed through direct van sales, where retailers who sell African or African-Caribbean food products, are the main clients.

Identification of the products
Both products are sold in clear glass 500ml jars, with golden metal lids. However, other sizes or batch codes of this product may exist. If local authorities find any other sizes/batches, they should sample the products and notify the Agency of any positive results. Local authorities should also ensure appropriate enforcement action is taken.

'Mama's Own Pure Palm Oil' has a label with white lettering on a blue background. 'Mama's Own Pure Zomi Palm Oil' has a label with white lettering on a red background.

To assist local authorities in correct identification of these products, a picture of each can be viewed from the links at the foot of this page.

Action to be taken by local authorities
The product presents a health risk if consumed in sufficient quantity and does not comply with the food safety requirements specified in the Food Safety Act 1990 due to contamination with Sudan IV. In addition, Sudan IV is not a permitted colour.

If any of this product is found within their area, enforcement officers should ensure that it is withdrawn and destroyed, if necessary using powers under the Food Safety Act.

It is essential that all non-unitary authorities liaise at county level to ensure that they co-ordinate their actions.