Drink Pulled That May Cause Reproductive Problems in Boys

MANILA, Philippines – Some supermarkets in the Philippines have voluntarily pulled various Taiwanese beverages from their shelves after receiving reports they may be contaminated by a harmful chemical, officials said Tuesday.

Taiwan informed the Food and Drugs Administration last week that some energy drinks, juices and jellies containing DEHP have been exported to the Philippines, deputy administrator Nazarita Tacandong said.

Large doses of DEHP, which is used in the manufacture of plastics, could cause future reproductive problems for boys, Tacandong said.

She said her agency will meet with supermarket owners and food producers to discuss whether a formal order is needed to direct stores to withdraw the Taiwanese beverages.

Taiwanese health authorities have said several companies illegally added DEHP to beverages and health supplements and have ordered the products pulled from store shelves there.

There have been no confirmed reports of ill effects from the beverages in Taiwan.