Agency issues updated warning on novelty sweets

Monday 12 May 2003

Brain Licker could burn or blister children's mouths

Ref: 2003/0373

The Food Standards Agency is warning consumers about a possible risk to children from Brain Licker, a liquid novelty sweet. There have been several complaints to local authorities that suggest that children may have suffered burns to their mouths from them.

Eight local authorities across the country have reported complaints about this product, which comes in a 60 ml container like a roll-on deodorant. Symptoms reported include blisters, burns and bleeding to the tongue and mouth.

The Agency issued a warning last month about similar novelty sweets - King Regal Roll on King, Spray King, and Tuby Acid - which were reported to have caused similar problems for children in Spain. These complaints have now been reported to the Agency following that warning.

Investigations into these products and the reasons for the reported problems are on-going. In one case reported to a local authority, a potential choking hazard was also identified, as the Brain Licker roll-on element came off.

Product description:

Name: Brain Licker, sour liquid candy
Description: roll-on deodorant shape and size container
Size: 60 ml / 2 oz
Flavours: strawberry, peach, apple, blue raspberry, grape, blackberry, lemon and watermelon