Health Ministry confirms safety of Tang products

A number of people expressed suspicion over holes on foil covering the container

Manama

Health authorities confirmed yesterday that “Tang” powdered juice products that are produced and sold in Bahrain are safe for consumption, denying the rumors on social media that suspicious holes were detected in the juice packs and containers.

It was stated by Health Ministry on its official Twitter account that the safety of the powdered “Tang” juice was ensured after the ministry inspected random samples sold in local markets.

The ministry’s statement followed a recent precautionary measure by Qatar Municipality to withdraw the product from its market.

The decision was taken as “suspicious” holes were found in the aluminum foil covering the powdered juice. Several videos and images were posted on social media, claiming the holes were found in some containers and “is believed to be poisonous.”

A Saudi online daily, Al Mowaten, reported “citizens in Riyadh were suspicious about Bahraini packed Tang powdered juice products that had small holes in its aluminum foil covers. Their discomfort increased as the products were sold at exceptionally reduced prices.”

It was also alleged that a renowned hypermarket in the neighbouring Kingdom’s capital even returned the products, after consumers expressed their suspicions.

“Being one of the most desired drinks in Saudi Arabia, especially during the Holy Month of Ramadan, consumers demanded the authorities to launch an immediate probe into the matter,” Al Mowaten added.

Meanwhile, DT News contacted the brand’s producer and distributer in the Kingdom.

They said, “We received several inquiries about the puncture marks in the foil covering the lid area of Tang Tubs. We would like to inform that these puncture marks are actually part of the production process and are performed at our manufacturing plants. The foil is purposefully punctured and this acts as a pressure relief valve to protect the quality and safety of our products when sold in high altitude retail environments.”

The company explained further, “These puncture marks are one-way pressure valves (from the inside out) that release air from the tub. This air release system is a global industry quality standard that is found in all food and beverage products handled in high altitude areas.”

“We rely on stringent quality procedures, in line with our global practices and industry standards, to ensure that our products are of the highest safety and quality,” it confirmed.