Media Hong Kong: Preservatives in Indomie Trigger Gastric Acid in the Long Run

Jakarta - Taiwan withdraw Indomie instant noodle products from a number of supermarkets because they contain preservatives methyl p-hydroxybenzoate. This substance is known to cause vomiting and increased gastric acid when consumed in the long term.

Authorities in Taiwan as reported by the media in Hong Kong, The Standard, said Indomie containing methyl p-hydroxybenzoate and benzoic acid. Preservative is banned in Taiwan and can only be used in cosmetic products.

Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate and benzoic acid are prohibited from use in Taiwan, Canada and Europe. This is because these preservatives can damage the health.

These preservatives are known to cause vomiting if consumed. Furthermore, if consumed for a specific long-term, these preservatives can cause metabolic acidosis which is the condition of too much stomach acid.

Following the withdrawal of Indomie in Taiwan, two supermarkets in Hong Kong and the Wellcome participate interesting Parknshop Indomie products from their stores. While Hong Kong's health authorities immediately investigate the content of Indomie. While the importer to provide a defense.

"Indomie in Hong Kong is safe to eat and go to Hong Kong via the legal import channels," said Fok King thestandard.com.hk Trading as reported on Monday (11/10/2010).

Meanwhile, according Indofood Indomie products containing methyl p-hydroxybenzoate was not to be marketed in Taiwan. Indomie in Taiwan have been adapted to the existing regulations in Taiwan are not taking these preservatives.

Although Taiwan declare Indomie contain hazardous materials, Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) ensure that Indonesian-made products are safe for consumption. "We assure you (Indomie) safe. It's okay," said Chief BPOM, Kustantinah, told AFP.

Kustantinah explain BPOM have rules governing food additives allowed in food with no maximum limit its use. Indomie withdrawal in Taiwan is a local state policy.

In line with Indonesia is Agency U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As reported eHow, Monday (11/10/2010), the FDA include methyl p-hydroxybenzoate as preservatives are safe. This material is allowed to be used in cosmetic products, pharmaceutical products or medicines and food products.

Fitraya Ramadhanny - detikNews