PETALING JAYA: Quality control measures on food products, particularly those targeted at children, should be tightened, says the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca).

Its chief operating officer Nur Asyikin Aminuddin said authorities must take stronger action to ensure product safety, especially for items with unclear origins or ingredients.

“The sale of products like gummy candies (pic), which are unclear in terms of origin and ingredients, raise concerns about user safety, particularly when there is insufficient information about the manufacturer and the materials used in the production of the product,” she said.

She added that stricter regulations should be implemented, similar to the bans imposed on hazardous toys such as crystal balls. 

Nur Asyikin was referring to the ban on the sale of crystal balls (water jelly beads) under the Consumer Protection Act 1999, imposed due to their choking ­hazard and risk of intestinal blockage in children. 

“Products that have not undergone thorough safety testing or do not meet certain standards pose risks to the consumers,” she said.

Nur Asyikin said there is a lack of awareness regarding the potential choking hazards of certain food products, particularly those designed for children.

“Concern for children’s safety should be prioritised, and these factors are crucial in ensuring that the product is safe for consumers, especially the most vulnerable ones,” she said.

She also called for stricter regulations on the sale of certain food products near schools.