CHILDREN are in danger of choking on a potentially-lethal gel sweet on sale in corner shops in Lewisham and Greenwich.

The sweets with a hard centre have a number of different brand names including ABC Mini Fruit Bites, New Choice Mini Fruit Gels, Rolin Mango Jelly Cup.

The Government's Food Standards Agency (FSA) believes the sweets, which are made in Asia, should be withdrawn a move supported by Lewisham trading standards experts.

Shaped like domes, tapering from 3cm to 2cm, and often sold in individual cartons, the slippery jelly sweets are sucked out of their packaging which increases the risk of choking.

This is because one ingredient Konjac does not dissolve easily and could stick to the back of children's throats.

Deputy Mayor of Lewisham Councillor Gavin Moore said: "Small shops may still be selling these sweets and it may not be easy to ensure they are removed straight away. We are asking parents to be alert and stop children from buying or eating these jellies."

The FSA issued a warning about the hazards from these sweets, earlier this month, after being alerted to the problem in August.

Risk has been assessed with advice evidence and information from the Department of Health, Department of Trade and Industry and other countries where action is also being taken.

Deputy chairman of the FSA Suzi Leather said: "The weight of evidence indicates these products present a risk to children. They should be removed from the market immediately."

Call Lewisham Trading Standards on 020 8314 7411 or environmental health on 020 8314 6789.

December 20, 2001 18:43

Andy Laithwaite