Health Ministry bans sale of ice cream made with Pei Pa Kao

File photo for illustration purposes only. Photo credit: Pixabay

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 30: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has prohibited the sale of ice cream  made with syringes containing Pei Pa Kao (Cap Ibu dan Anak), as this traditional cough medicine carries a warning that it should not be consumed by pregnant women.

In a statement today, MOH instructed an ice cream chain and all premises offering this product to immediately cease sales for the safety of consumers and the public.

Additionally, all advertisements for these items on any platform must be stopped and removed.

Pei Pa Koa (Cap Ibu dan Anak) is a registered product under the Drug Control Authority, classified under the Traditional category with registration number MAL06061564T.

It is intended to relieve sore throat and cough but is contraindicated for pregnant women, as stated on its label.

MOH has emphasised that under Section 13B (2) of the Food Act 1983, the preparation or sale of mixed foods is prohibited.

Violations may result in a fine of up to RM 20,000 or imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

The Ministry has expressed concern over the sale of ice cream mixed with Pei Pa Koa cough medicine, highlighting that checks at the premises revealed syringes of the cough medicine being used in the preparation of the ice cream.

It also urged the food industry to adhere strictly to the Food Act 1983 and associated regulations, emphasising responsibility in food preparation and sales.

Consumers are advised to be vigilant about food safety and to avoid products that may contain unsuitable or unsafe ingredients.

For any concerns related to food safety, consumers can contact their local District Health Office or State Health Department, or visit the Public Complaint Management System (SISPAA) at http://moh.spab.gov.my or the Food Safety and Quality Program (PKKM) Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bkkmhq. — DayakDaily