Spice mix warning

Food businesses in County Durham are being warned to check their stocks for a spice mix that contains a banned food colour.

Durham County Council's Trading Standards offices are trying to identify potential buyers of the mixed spice called Mix Bisar, an orange brown powder that contains the banned colour Sudan 1.

They will be visiting and writing to food businesses in the county likely to have bought the product to offer advice and assistance.

The spice was exported from Karachi by EuroTraders and imported into the UK by Alif Foods of Bradford. It is packed in 800 gram clear plastic bags with a packing date of March 2008 and expiry date of February 2010.

Joanne Waller, the County Council's head of environment, health and consumer protection, said: "It's believed the spice may be mainly distributed to wholesalers and retailers in the Bradford area but it could be in other areas, particularly the North East.

"Food manufacturers, restaurants, cafés and takeaway businesses may already have stocks. I would urge all food businesses in the county to check their shelves and, if found, return the product to their supplier."

Councillor Bob Young, Cabinet member for environment, said: "Sudan 1 is capable of causing cancer.

"However, it's thought that the mixed spice would be used only in very small quantities so no serious health risks are anticipated."

Businesses looking for further advice can call Trading Standards on 0191 383 3589.

Words: Maria Bracken

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