Do not consume these three brown rice products
They contain a pesticide that is banned in the EU
The food safety authorities are warning people not to consume three kinds of brown rice because of traces of a pesticide that is banned in the EU.
The Food Safety and Security Authority said samples of the products showed a presence of the unauthorised pesticide ethylene oxide.
Ethylene oxide is a pesticide that is not permitted for use in foods sold in the EU but is approved for use outside the bloc.
Although the consumption of the contaminated product does not pose an acute risk to health, there is an increased risk if there is continued consumption of ethylene oxide. Therefore, exposure to the chemical needs to be minimised.
Consumers are being advised not to consume the product and throw it away or return it to the store from where it was purchased.
More information on 2602 5000 or info.fssa@gov.mt
The products are:
Riso Scotti's long grain parboiled brown rice that comes in 1kg packages and originates from Italy. The lot number is 26034D and the best before date is April 2028.
Biona Organic's organic Himalayan basmati brown rice that comes in 500g bags with lot number 24022025. The product expires on August 24, 2026.
True Natural Goodness organic brown basmati rice, sold in 1kg bags. It originates from India or Pakistan and has lot number 12668A. The best-before date is December 23, 2026.