FDA lifts recall order on DEHP-tainted Taiwan food items

The Food and Drug Administration has lifted a June 2011 recall order on some food products from Taiwan that contain the plasticizer di(ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). In a Jan. 4 advisory posted on its website Friday, the FDA said recent laboratory tests on collected food samples showed they do not contain DEHP. “Based on the laboratory tests done on collected food samples, which were found to be negative for the presence of DEHP, and continuous monitoring of unregistered food products, the FDA hereby lifts the recall order of selected brands of food products coming from Taiwan,” acting director Kenneth Hartigan-Go said. However, Go also instructed food inspectors to continue monitoring establishments for unregistered food products, and collect samples for laboratory testing to ensure food safety. Also, he ordered the Bureau of Customs to release all imported processed food products only after the FDA recommends their release, “to prevent entry of contaminated and unsafe food products from other countries.” In late May 2011, the FDA had said authorities are monitoring some food products from Taiwan that may contain DEHP. The FDA cited reports that DEHP was illegally added to some food products in Taiwan to improve its emulsification. Then FDA head Suzette Lazo indicated the high-risk products from Taiwan may have included sports drinks, fruit juices and soft drinks. She said that while low doses of DEHP are “generally safe,” high doses or prolonged exposure can have “harmful effects,” and exposure should thus be limited. “Children are especially prone to the harmful effects of high doses of DEHP or to repeated exposure, which can lead to testicular defects, fertility problems and toxicity to kidneys,” she said. — LBG, GMA News