The China Syndrome: Canada Recalls Non-Dairy Creamer

CFIA and Thai Indochine Trading Inc. have issued a recall notice for Mr. Brown 3-in-1 instant coffee products.

Three products, all sold in 450g packages containing 30 x 15-gram bags, have been recalled. The items were distributed in Alberta, British Columbia and Manitoba, and are described as follows:

• Instant Coffee 3 in 1 Mandheling Blend Coffee: UPC 4 710085 122523; Produced 2008/04/09 to 2008/09/12 inclusive; Expiry 2010/04/09 to 2010/09/12 inclusive
  
• Instant Coffee 3 in 1 Blue Mountain Blend Coffee: UPC 4 710085 200597; Produced 2008/04/09 to 2008/09/12 inclusive; Expiry 2010/04/09 to 2010/09/12 inclusive
  
• Instant Coffee 3 in 1 Arabica Coffee: UPC 4 710085 122509; Produced 2008/04/09 to 2008/09/12 inclusive; Expiry 2010/04/09 to 2010/09/12 inclusive
  

The Taiwan government detected melamine in samples of these non-dairy creamers, and announced a recall of the items on the weekend. Thai Indochine, the Canadian importer, initiated this voluntary recall after being informed by the manufacturer of the Taiwan findings. No associated illnesses have been reported.

CFIA has issued an updated consumer advisory on the melamine situation, and is continuing to monitor the Canadian marketplace for other potential melamine-contaminated products.