This after the 119 products samples were confiscated in various parts of the country for testing in the Department's Forensic Chemical Laboratories.
The samples analysed included a variety of products ranging from White Rabbit and other sweets, chocolates, biscuits/cookies, milk, peanut beverages to infant formula and cereals, said the department on Friday.
So far 107 results have been received and only one of the samples tested positive for Melamine.
“The one sample that failed the test for Melamine was that of White Rabbit sweets manufactured in Shangai, China,” according to the department.
The milk-flavoured toffees with an edible inside wrapper are exported from China to up to 40 countries around the world.
In South Africa, the sweets are widely available at Chinese restaurants and in supermarkets across the country.
Based on the results, the department said it has informed the authorities at the provinces and metro/district municipalities with full details of the sample of the White Rabbit sweets that failed the test, including the batch number appearing on its label and the authorities have been requested to immediately continue with the seizure, condemnation and disposal of the products.
According to the World Health Organisation, melamine is a chemical compound that is used for laminates, glues, dinnerware, adhesives, moulding compounds, coatings and flame retardants. It is also used to inflate protein content in food.
Earlier this year, melamine in Chinese-manufactured dairy products was blamed for many infant deaths and illness.
Melamine is an industrial chemical used to make plastics and glues. It was added to watered-down diary products to boost their protein content.
The department further appealed to parents to be extra-vigilant regarding the products that children are exposed to.
Article published courtesy of BuaNews
