The China Syndrome: UK Recalls Koala Biscuits

The UK Food Standards Agency has advised consumers that four flavors of Koala brand biscuits manufactured by Lotte China Foods Co. have been withdrawn from sale throughout the UK.

The recall was triggered by a finding of 4.98 ppm of melamine in the biscuits. All batch codes of the following varieties are covered by this recall notice.

• Koala Chocolate Cookies 49g
  
• Koala Strawberry Cookies 49g
  
• Koala Yummie Cookies Chestnut 49g
  
• Koala Melon Cookies 49g
  

The Koala brand cookies were distributed through Chinese food markets and other independent retailers. Local authorities are monitoring the recall and destruction of the items.

This is the most recent in a series of international recalls of Koala brand cookies as a result of melamine contamination. Canada and Hong Kong are among the jurisdictions that have announced recalls of Koala brand cookies made in China. The United States hasn't yet issued a recall notice, but look for one in the next few days. Koala brand biscuits are available in retail stores in the US, and also can be purchased over the Internet.