SFDA warns against consuming certain ginseng coffee and chocolate products

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has issued an urgent public health warning advising consumers to avoid specific coffee and chocolate products containing ginseng. According to the Saudi Gazette, laboratory testing conducted by the authority identified the presence of Nortadalafil, a substance prohibited for use in food products, within the affected items. The warning specifically covers all batches of Parsa Coffee, Parsa Choco (dark chocolate with ginseng), and Bintan SKY coffee, all of which were distributed in 100g sachets.

The SFDA has instructed consumers to immediately cease consumption of these products and to dispose of any remaining units safely. The authority highlighted that these items pose significant health risks, particularly for individuals suffering from chronic medical conditions. The presence of unauthorized pharmaceutical ingredients in food supplements is a serious violation of Saudi safety standards, prompting the regulator to take immediate action.

In response to the findings, the SFDA has initiated regulatory measures to recall and withdraw the identified products from markets across the Kingdom. The authority stated that it is conducting comprehensive monitoring to ensure that no further units remain in circulation. This action reflects the SFDA's ongoing commitment to maintaining food safety standards and protecting public health from unregulated or adulterated consumer goods.