FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, OCT. 8, 2010

NCDA&CS issues consumer advisory after finding metal
in lollipops from South America

RALEIGH — The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is warning consumers about Colombina Mega Pops after tests found tiny pieces of metal in the candy.

The lollipops are sold in 28-ounce bags with a lot number 120979601171 or ELPACK #2. The candy is imported from Colombia.

Inspectors with the department’s Food and Drug Protection Division collected samples of the candy in response to a consumer complaint. Tests confirmed the presence of metal fibers and flakes in the candy. The department has communicated its findings to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the investigation is ongoing.

 “Our staff will continue to pursue this investigation with FDA to determine how widely the candy was distributed,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “In the meantime, we don’t recommend buying this candy to stock your Halloween bowl. And if you have any of this candy, we recommend putting it in the trash or returning it to the place of purchase.”

-bal-2