BBPOM : There are three brands of sardines that cointain of worms

News24xx.com -  Large Hall of Drug and Food Control (BBPOM) of Pekanbaru released new research results and found that there are three brands of imported sardine cans that contain worms. Therefore, the agency which worked under National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) calls for those brands to be withdrawn from the markets so there will be no more civilians who consume them.

“There are three products of mackerel, which are IO, Farmer Jack and HOKI brands,” said the head of BBPOM of Pekanbaru, Muhammad Kashuri, in Pekanbaru, Riau, Wednesday, March 21 2018.

The inspection and laboratory research was done hurriedly after a number of videos and photos posted in social media by civilians became viral last week. The videos and photos showed that there were worms inside a product of mackerel cans.

Kashuri explained that the first case happened in Tembilahan City, Indragiri Hilir District, followed by Selatpanjang City, Kepulauan Meranti District. The BBPOM then coordinated with local public health office to collect samples to be checked in laboratory.

The research result was also discussed by several experts before BBPOM of Pekanbaru announced the truth regarding the Chinese imported products to the public. “It means that, it is confirmed that there really are worms, although it is not tapeworm which is viral in social media. It is anisakis worm,” Kashuri explained.

Anisakis worms are parasites that can cause problems for the fish and for the humans that consume it. If consumed without being cooked or at a half-cooked state, it will cause illness. The worms were found inside the mackerel, already dead.

Furthermore, Kashuri explained that worms generally contain high protein. It means that, worms can become an allergen if consumed. “That is why, for certain people who are sensitive with allergies, it could cause allergies starting with itchy skin,” he said.

However, a more dangerous thing can happen if the worms are consumed by people who suffer from asthma. “The danger if consumed by people with history of asthma, it can cause hyperventilating,” Kashuri said.

BBPOM has released warning letters and given sanctions to the importers of the three brands of sardines. The importers have to withdraw the products that are still in the markets and will always be under surveillance of BBPOM.

 

 

 

 

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