Starway Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Sulfites in Red Diamond Brand Dried Chinese Vegetable

Contact:
Chris Lee
718-417-1788

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Brooklyn, NY -- December 23, 2004 -- Starway Incorporated, located at 137 Grattan Street, Brooklyn, NY 11237, is recalling Red Diamond brand Dried Chinese Vegetable because the product contains undeclared sulfites. People who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The recalled Red Diamond brand Dried Chinese Vegetable, a product of China, is distributed in uncoded and heat-sealed 3 oz. plastic bags. The product was distributed nationwide.

The recall was initiated after routine sampling by NYS Dept. of Agriculture & Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis of the product by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared sulfites in Red Diamond brand Dried Chinese Vegetable in packages which did not declare sulfites on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

Consumers who have purchased the packages of Red Diamond brand Dried Chinese Vegetable should return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-417-1788.

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