Breaking: Authorities in Peru are warning consumers about the sale of perhaps toxic sweets and chocolates ahead of the Todos los Santos holiday.
unlabeled imported gummies, sweets, and chocolates are flooding the market, raising concerns about the presence of prohibited artificial colors and additives. Health officials report these products may contain red dye 3, banned by the Ministry of Health since 2022 due to its potential carcinogenic effects.
Nationwide, the National Institute of Health (INS) estimates that approximately 30% of products seized during recent festive campaigns lack proper health registration.The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) further cautions that excessive sugar and synthetic dye consumption in children increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and behavioral disorders.
Inspections have extended to bakeries and artisan workshops producing traditional holiday treats like “wawas” and ”caballitos,” with authorities seizing batches of “grajeas” (candies) lacking health certification or visible expiration dates.
Eder Peña, coordinator of the diresa Food Safety area, emphasized that responsibility lies with both health authorities and adults. “Parents should always check the labeling and octagons before giving candy to their children. If a product does not indicate its origin or is expired, it should not be consumed,” he stated.
public health specialists warn that insufficient control over ultra-processed food sales is a systemic issue in Peru, stemming from weak supervision and limited consumer awareness. they recommend prioritizing artisanal sweets or fresh fruits over unfamiliar industrial products.
