According to the Codex Alimentarius Commission, konjac is considered a safe food additive.  However, improper consumption of mini-cup konjac jellies can increase the choking risk, particularly for children and the elderly people, due to their unique product design and firm texture.

The Centre for Food Safety, after reviewing the potential choking risks associated with the consumption of mini-cup konjac-containing jelly confectionery products, the regulatory practices of major economies concerning such products and conducting risk assessment, proposes amendments to the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) to strengthen regulation of konjac-containing jelly confectionery.

The new regulatory requirements include –

  1. Jelly confectionery that is prepackaged food and that is packed in a mini-cup-shaped container must not contain konjac if the height or width of the container does not exceed 45mm; and
  2. The outermost layer of packaging for sale of jelly confectionery that is prepackaged food and that contains konjac must be clearly and legibly marked with the following words in both Chinese and English:

注意：勿一口吞食，長者及兒童須在監護下食用。
Caution: Do not swallow whole.  Elderly and children must consume under supervision.

The above words must be marked in a conspicuous position on the packaging. They must be underlined and marked in dark colour on a light-coloured background or in light colour on a dark-coloured background; or marked in red text on a white or yellow background.

Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) (Amendment) Regulation 2025

Technical Meeting

Proposal on Regulation of Konjac-containing Jelly Confectionery

The public consultation period was ended on 8 June 2025.

The public may refer to the following information for practical advice on prevention of choking.