A survey found that stronger safety control is needed after bacteria were detected in some imported snacks sold at unmanned shops near elementary schools. Hygiene and quality concerns were identified in new types of snacks favored by children, such as mala-flavored konjac and freeze-dried jelly.
The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) on Dec. 9 released test results on the quality and safety of 20 imported snacks, including mala-flavored snacks and candies, distributed at unmanned shops near elementary schools.
The investigation found bacterial growth in one product among mala-flavored snacks, "Xianglawei konjac jelly." The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) recommended that the product's importer-distributor halt sales and refund consumers. It was found that there is no inventory currently in distribution.
Some products also raised concerns about physical safety. For "ASMR crispy earth-shaped freeze-dried jelly," some items were excessively hard, posing a risk of tooth damage if consumed by children.
Many mala-flavored snacks use oils and fats such as soybean oil, creating a risk of rancidity if manufacturing, storage, and distribution are not properly controlled. However, most of the products tested were not included under rancidity control. In response, the consumer agency recommended that importer-distributors manage quality in line with standards for fried and oil-treated foods.
There were also products that required caution from a nutritional standpoint. Among mala-flavored snacks, "Jindaizhou Xiangla enoki mushroom" and "Chapssal Ratio" were found to be high in sodium, with just two packs reaching the adequate daily intake of sodium for children ages 9 to 11, 1,300 mg.
Among candies, "Ggudeok Jelly blueberry flavor" was high in calories and sugars. One bag contained 642 kcal, and its sugar content was 55 g, exceeding the daily added sugar intake guideline of 45 g for children ages 9 to 11.
The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) plans to ask relevant agencies, including the Ministery of Food and Drug Safety, to strengthen safety monitoring of new types of imported snacks, including mala-flavored products.