NO porcine DNA was detected in all sandwich samples tested in the cheese and ham sandwich controversy, said Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
He said this is the outcome of the Chemistry Department report obtained on January 20.
“The Chemistry Department has confirmed that no porcine DNA was found in any of the samples.
“The investigation was transparent and referred to the relevant authorities, and we expedited prosecution for violations of two regulations,” he in Sandakan.
The controversy over a “ham and cheese” sandwich sold at Universiti Malaya sparked concerns over halal certification after it was found to bear a halal logo without proper approval.
While tests confirmed no porcine DNA in the product, the company and its director were charged with misusing the halal label under trade description and trademark laws.
Towards this end, Armizan stressed the importance of using halal certification issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) to avoid similar controversies.
The case, which resulted in charges on January 24, 2025, involved a company and its director, who were charged under Paragraph 8(b) of the Trade Descriptions (Halal Certification and Marking) Order 2011 and Section 4(1)(a).
The company was also suspected of violating Section 102(1)(c) of the Trademarks Act 2019. – February 17, 2025.