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Image Source: Ikea Fans
BY SOLE MALDONADO AYUSO
ANCHOR CANDICE AVILES
If you thought a little horse meat in your burger was a big
deal...what about fecal bacteria in your almond cake?
Ikea has removed its almond cakes
from 23 countries after an investigative group discovered excessive level of coliform bacteria
in Ikea products in China. This bacteria can be found in soil, vegetation and water but
also in feces from humans and warm-blooded animals.
According to Sky News, Chinese
authorities have destroyed nearly two tones of Ikea’s chocolate cake for violating its
food quality standards.
Ikea spokesman Ylva Magnusson explained:
"There is no
health risk associated with consuming this product...However, since the product does
not comply with our strict food quality standards we have decided to withdraw the concerned
production batches from sale.”
An investigation has not yet disclosed the levels of the bacteria
in the destroyed cakes. One week ago Ikea had to withdraw meatballs
and sausages from its restaurants in 24 countries after Czech Republic authorities found traces
of horsemeat in the Swedish supplier’s products.
This new scandal could be particularly
damaging to the company. Ikea has built its trademark not only with furniture, but also
by offering inexpensive food services which account for 5% of the company’s revenue.
The issue of undisclosed ingredients have sparked health concerns throughout Europe,
and Ikea just one of the many companies involved in the ever developing scandal. The massive
food company Nestlé SA is also facing problems with some of its products.