Tiger Brands recall after banned colorant findings

Tiger Brands has recalled rice products after tests revealed the presence of illegal colorants.

The Tastic Simply Delicious branded products were made in India in June and July and imported in South Africa.

The firm said the range is produced under the control of a flavour house and retested by Tastic in an independent laboratory in South Africa.

Testing found colourants Methyl Yellow and Sudan 1 – which can make food unsafe because of the possible toxicity and carcinogenic properties.

Both substances are described by the World Health Organisation as representing possible risk to human health, and are prohibited in certain countries, including South Africa.

“Any consumer who has Simply Delicious cook-in-sauces or ready-to-eat rice product in their cupboard - specifically produced in June or July 2014 – is advised to return this to any one of the major supermarkets in their neighbourhoods,” said the firm.

“Once we are fully satisfied that supplies of Simply Delicious meet our stringent quality standards, the products will be supplied again to supermarkets as soon as possible.”

Tiger Brands said no other batches are affected and all other Tastic rice products are not involved.