Chilli products withdrawn in NI amid cancer fears

A number of chilli products are being withdrawn from shops and restaurants across Northern Ireland amid fears they contain a cancer causing dye, it emerged tonight.

The North's Food Standards Agency issued a fresh food hazard warning as it emerged a number of further products contained the chemical dye, Sudan I.

It is understood three chilli suppliers in India had been incorporating the dye, which is not permitted for use in food, in their products.

The latest products found to be contaminated with the dye in the province are from the Dragon Brand and O’Kane Food Service Brand products packed by Dragon Brand Foods, Orchard Road Industrial Estate in Strabane, Co Tyrone.

Only 200g and 5kg packets of Dragon Brand Curry Sauce and 4.5kg servings of O’Kane Food Service Curry Sauce with best before dates of up to and including September 19, 2004 are affected.

The Food Standards Agency said members of the public and retailers who purchased a contaminated product should either throw it away or return it and request a refund.

The contaminated products have been distributed throughout the North to a number of wholesalers and restaurants.