Gardenia East Malaysia issues corporate clarification amid food poisoning case

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 10 — Gardenia Bakeries (East Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has issued a corporate clarification following food poisoning complaints involving its products, which have garnered significant attention on social media. The clarification comes from Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad Executive Director Datuk Dexter Lau, who assured that Gardenia Bakeries (East Malaysia) and Gardenia Bakeries (KL) are two distinct entities with separate ownership and management structures.

The Ministry of Health (MoH) is currently probing the allegations of food poisoning following the consumption of Gardenia Original Classic White Bread and Twiggies Choc-A-Lot. The preliminary investigation, initiated on November 8, is awaiting laboratory analysis results from samples collected from affected individuals. While the MoH stated that Gardenia Bakeries (KL) had conducted an internal investigation and found no irregularities, the ministry emphasized that the findings cannot serve as a conclusive cause for the reported symptoms.

This uncertainty in product traceability was attributed to incomplete batch numbers and expiry dates provided by the complainants. The MoH indicated that they would conduct follow-up inspections at the Kuala Lumpur factory to ensure compliance with the Food Act 1983 and take necessary enforcement actions if any violations or food safety risks are identified.

In response to the situation, Lau reiterated the company's unwavering commitment to food safety, hygiene, quality control, and adherence to standards and regulations. He emphasized that Gardenia Bakeries (East Malaysia) remains dedicated to providing safe and high-quality products, affirming the company’s continued trust and support from consumers.