Popular brand of hot pepper paste recalled in Canada
A popular hot pepper paste has been pulled from shelves across parts of Canada over undeclared wheat in the product.
Taeyangcho Gochujang, a widely used Korean condiment made from fermented chili peppers, is a staple in dishes like bibimbap, pork bulgogi, and spicy rice cakes called tteokbokki.
In a recall notice issued Oct. 3, Health Canada warned consumers with a wheat allergy or those with celiac disease or other gluten-related disorders not to consume the recalled products.
The brand is listed as “N/A” in the notice because the label shows Korean characters only, but it’s a popular red container found in big-box grocery stores and Asian markets across the country.
Three sizes of the product are included in the recall, and Canadians are urged to check the package size and barcode to see if the product in their pantry is affected:
- 170 g — barcode 8801075012323
- 500 g — barcode 8801075012316
- 1 kg — barcode 8801075012620
The products were distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.
Health Canada says the recall was triggered by a customer complaint; however, there have been no reported reactions associated with consumption of the products.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products.
It is not indicated in the recall notice whether customers can get a full refund on the product. Those with any questions are encouraged to contact the CFIA at 1-613-773-2342 or by email.