Philippine food safety authorities are testing at least 54 milk and milk products amid concerns over the widening contaminated Chinese milk scandal, a government agency said Saturday.
The Bureau of Food and Drug (BFAD) said it would test milk and milk products that have not been manufactured in China but possibly contained milk ingredients from China, reported dpa.
The agency said the products, which include famous brands like Nestle chocolate flavour ice cream cone and M&M chocolates and Snickers, will be tested for contamination of melamine which was found in infant formula in China.
Melamine is used as a binding agent and coating for particle, fibre and laminated board. It is also used to make fertilizer.
At least four infants died as after consuming melamine-contaminated milk powder, while some 13,000 were hospitalized and 40,000 others experienced health problems, according to the Chinese health ministry and state media.
The Philippines banned the sale and importation of Chinese milk and milk products Tuesday.
Supermarkets, groceries and stores have been ordered to pull products from their shelves to be tested for melamine contamination.
Customs officials were closely watching incoming shipments from China to ensure that the ban on milk and milk products was strictly imposed.
Police officers and local officials were making rounds in public markets to ensure that no Chinese milk or milk products are being sold.
Leticia Gutierrez, BFAD director, said the ban on specific brands would be lifted as soon as laboratory tests show they are not contaminated with melamine.