Malaysia: Dead Anisakis parasite found in canned sardines
The Malaysia Ministry of Health (MOH) reported this week on dead worms found in sardine tins, prompting an investigation.
Image Malaysia MOH
MOH, in collaboration with the Food Safety and Quality Division is conducting monitoring of imported canned (sardine and mackerel) products as well as in local markets.
The parasitic roundworm, Anisakis spp. has been found in several brands of canned sardines and mackerel–TL Tan Lung, TLC, Cinta, Sea Fresh and HS Brand.
In addition, the mackerel fish products in the King Cup, Star Cup and TC Boy tomato sauce were found to contain the same parasitic impurities.
Health officials have taken enforcement action against the company involved, which has been ordered to withdraw the product from the market.
MOH has also imposed a Hold, Test and Release action on the import of canned fish products at all national gateways. Hold, Test and Release is an action where the samples will be taken for the analysis and the product will only be released if the results of the analysis indicate that worms from the genus Anisakis spp .
Health officials say the risk to health is very low because the worms have died due to cooking or caking process.
TLC sardines
Image/Malaysia MOH
