Online Sale Macarons Detected with Food Poisoning Bacteria and Excessive Food Coloring Standards

Macaron

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyesook] Incheon City announced on the 14th that a safety investigation of 51 types of macarons sold online found that some items contained Staphylococcus aureus and food coloring exceeding the standard limits.

Macarons, a representative French dessert, are continuously increasing in demand as children's snacks due to their vibrant colors, sweet taste, and chewy texture made from almond powder.

In this investigation, tests were conducted for total aflatoxins (the sum of B1, B2, G1, and G2), which are classified as human carcinogens, Staphylococcus aureus, food coloring, and the allowable error in quantity-labeled products. Total aflatoxins were not detected in any of the products.

However, six items tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus, one item exceeded the standard for food coloring (Red No. 40), and two items were under the labeled quantity, totaling nine items deemed non-compliant. The city notified the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and relevant administrative agencies to block distribution and enforce recalls.

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacterium that mainly causes food poisoning, and it is important for producers to prevent contamination by practicing handwashing and avoiding food preparation with injured hands.

Food coloring is necessary to achieve vivid colors but must be used strictly within the permitted standards for food products.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.