I just got this in my email a few minutes ago. We have had a lot of people ask if chocolate and other confectionery products were safe. People are pretty darned scared about this melamine problem we have been hearing so much about in the news, and for good reason.
Here is NCA’s official statement on the issue:
Chocolate makers abide by strict government regulations in order to ensure the quality and safety of chocolate products sold in the US. Last week the Food and Drug Administration announced that the agency has expanded its testing of food products imported from China. NCA agrees with this action; all candy products sold in the US, regardless of country of origin, must meet the same stringent safety standards.
Chocolate products produced in North America do not source milk or milk products from China. Consumers can continue to enjoy their favorite chocolates knowing they are as wholesome and safe as ever.
However, there have been some candy recalls. QFCO, Inc. issued a recall for their White Rabbit candies on Friday due to possible melamine contamination. From their press release on the issue: “Consumers who have purchased White Rabbit Candy are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard it in their trash. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (650) 697-6633.”
Cadbury has had a similar recall of its Chinese-made products but not for any of their products distributed in North America. The problem products were reportedly only distributed in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Australia.
The bottom line is that if you live in North America and buy products made there, you are fine. If you are concerned, one way to be extra vigilant is to turn a package over to see where it was manufactured and whether it contains milk. Right now it is milk-based products from China that are highly suspect. Milk-based products from other countries can be assumed to be safe.
