THE Health Ministry is investigating viral complaints of suspected food poisoning involving consumers who allegedly experienced symptoms after consuming Gardenia products, particularly Gardenia Original Classic White Bread and Twiggies Choc-A-Lot.
The ministry said it had sought an explanation from Gardenia Bakeries (KL) Sdn Bhd and obtained leftover products and packaging from complainants, with their consent, for laboratory analysis.
However, efforts to trace the products have been hampered by incomplete information on manufacturing batch numbers and expiry dates.
The ministry said the company's internal investigation found no irregularities in the production process, recipe changes or non-compliance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and food safety controls involving the products.
"However, these findings cannot yet form the basis for a definitive conclusion on the cause of the symptoms experienced by consumers.
"The ministry is still awaiting laboratory analysis results and will conduct follow-up inspections at the factory to verify compliance with the Food Act 1983," it said in a statement.
The ministry stressed that appropriate enforcement action would be taken if investigations uncovered evidence of legal violations or risks to food safety.
It also urged the public against speculation that could cause confusion over the issue.
Consumers experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort after consuming the suspected products were advised to seek medical attention immediately and lodge reports with their nearest District Health Office.
The investigation follows social media claims that several Gardenia products had caused consumers to experience vomiting and diarrhoea. - November 9, 2026