Malaysian ice cream chain Inside Scoop faced backlash from the country’s Ministry of Health after promoting a new flavour featuring the popular herbal cough syrup Pei Pa Koa. The ministry reprimanded the chain for selling ice cream mixed with the syrup, which is registered with the drug control authority for medicinal use. The label on the product indicated that it was not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, prompting concerns over the potential health risks associated with consuming the combination.
Pei Pa Koa, also known as Pi Pa Gao, is a traditional Chinese medicine used to alleviate coughs, soothe sore throats, and reduce heatiness. The product, sold by the Nin Jiom Group, contains honey and various herbs, and is recognizable by the Mother and Child Logo on its packaging. However, under Malaysia’s Food Act, it is illegal to mix edible items with medicine, and the sale of such products is prohibited. Offenders may face fines, imprisonment, or both as stipulated by the law, in order to safeguard the safety and well-being of consumers and the public.
In response to the Ministry of Health’s warning, Inside Scoop promptly removed the Pei Pa Koa ice cream flavour from its stores and website. The company acknowledged the ministry’s concerns, stating that they would comply with regulations and cease selling the product to ensure compliance with the law. Customers who had ordered the ice cream were assured that refunds would be processed. The chain’s promotional materials for the Pei Pa Koa ice cream were removed from online platforms, as the company took steps to rectify the situation and adhere to the ministry’s directives.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale for businesses in the food industry to be vigilant and ensure that their products comply with regulations and do not pose a risk to public health. Despite the potential appeal of innovative and unconventional flavour combinations, companies must prioritize consumer safety and adhere to legal requirements when developing and marketing food products. The Ministry of Health’s swift response to the issue emphasizes the importance of upholding standards and guidelines to prevent the sale of adulterated items that could endanger the well-being of customers.
As Inside Scoop navigates the aftermath of the Pei Pa Koa controversy, the incident highlights the need for increased awareness and oversight within the food industry to prevent similar occurrences in the future. By being mindful of regulatory standards and taking responsibility for the products they offer, businesses can build trust with consumers and maintain a reputation for quality and integrity. While the Pei Pa Koa ice cream may have initially generated curiosity and interest, its swift removal from circulation underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety in all aspects of product development and promotion.
