Colorado State University Extension
SafeFood Rapid Response Network
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Konjac Candy is a Choking Hazard
Edited by: Mary Schroeder, M.S., R.D. & Pat Kendall, Ph.D., R.D., Colorado State - Fall 2002
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), continues to alert consumers about the choking hazard associated with konjac candy. The mini jelly candies come in assorted flavors. Each mini jelly cup is about the size of a single-serve coffee creamer. These candies contain the ingredient "konjac" (also known as conjac, konnyaku, yam flour, or glucomannan). These multi-fruit-flavored candies are typically packaged as individual, mouth-sized servings, and often feature an embedded piece of preserved fruit. Unlike gelatin products commonly found in the U.S., these candies do not readily dissolve when placed in the mouth.
The FDA and the Consumer Product Safety Commission staff consider this type of candy to pose a serious choking risk, particularly to infants, children and elderly. There have been six children's deaths from choking associated with this type of jelly candy throughout the United States in recent years. There have also been reports of deaths in other countries.
In August and October 2001, the FDA issued general warnings against consuming mini-cup gel candies that contain "konjac." Other firms recalled gel candies. In October 2001, the agency issued an Import Alert. However, candies imported prior to the import alert were not detained and are still in the US market.
This type of candy is sold under various brand names and is distributed by various companies. The candies are distributed nationwide to large retail establishments, and to Asian and Hispanic markets. If consumers discover these candies on store shelves, they should contact the local Food and Drug Administration office with detailed information about the candy. The phone number of the local FDA office can be accessed at- www.fda.gov/opacom/backgrounders/complain.html.
