SHAH ALAM, Nov 9 — The Health Ministry is investigating complaints circulating online about alleged food poisoning among those who consumed Gardenia products, specifically Gardenia Original Classic White Bread and Twiggies Choc-A-Lot.
The ministry said that it has sought an explanation from Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn Bhd regarding the complaints.
With the complainants’ consent, the ministry also collected the remaining products and their packaging for laboratory analysis.
However, tracing the products has been challenging because information on manufacturing batches and expiry dates is incomplete.
“The company’s internal investigation found no deviations in the production process, changes to recipes, or non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and food safety controls for the products in question.
“Nevertheless, these findings cannot yet serve as a basis for drawing a definitive conclusion regarding the cause of the symptoms experienced by the consumers.
“The ministry is still awaiting the results of the laboratory analysis and will conduct follow-up inspections at the factory to verify compliance with the Food Act 1983,” the statement read.
The ministry further emphasised that it will take appropriate enforcement action if the investigation uncovered evidence of legal violations or risks to food safety.
The ministry has advised the public to refrain from speculation that could cause confusion about the matter.
“Individuals who experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or physical discomfort after consuming the suspected products are urged to seek immediate medical attention and file a report with their nearest District Health Office,” the statement added.
Previously, allegations circulated on social media claiming that certain Gardenia products caused consumers to experience symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting.
