Punjas denies claim of tooth found in biscuit, cites strict safety standards
June 11, 2025 10:05 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Doddy Morris.
Punjas Biscuit Pte Ltd has firmly denied allegations that a human tooth was found in one of its biscuit products, following a report from a Port Vila resident last week who went live on Facebook to share the claim.
In a formal statement issued to the Vanuatu Daily Post, the company said that at Punjas they uphold the highest standards of food safety and quality assurance throughout their production processes.
“We operate under a robust and internationally benchmarked Food Safety Management System, incorporating HACCP, ISO and BRC standards. Our biscuit production process is fully automated and designed to eliminate the risk of foreign matter contamination through a series of preventive and detective controls,” the company stated.
The company also stated that each batch of biscuits undergoes extensive quality checks at multiple stages, from raw material inspection to final packaging. Their baking process involves high temperatures that would render any organic foreign material, such as human tooth or blood, completely unrecognisable and sterilised.
“Based on the description provided, including the appearance of a ‘fresh tooth’ and associated odor, we can confidently state that such scenario is not technically feasible within our manufacturing environment.
“Furthermore, our facilities are equipped with metal detectors, sieving systems, and visual inspection protocols to prevent any foreign object contamination. All staff are trained in hygiene and safety procedures, and we maintain detailed traceability records for every production run. We understand that the original post has since been removed and that you have acknowledged the implausibility of the claim,” Punjas further stated.
They added that while the company appreciate the role of the media in reporting public concerns, they respectfully request that any coverage of this matter reflect the technical realities of food manufacturing and rigorous standards they uphold.
However, the individual behind the complaint, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the Daily Post that when she was eating the cookie, she felt something hard as she chewed.
“At first, I thought it was meat because it had blood. I immediately spat out the cookie because it felt like I was eating meat. When I looked at what I had spat out, I saw blood and a tooth. The blood had come out with the tooth.
“I checked my own teeth, but they were all fine. Maybe there was meat attached to the tooth. It was a strange feeling—like eating mint that dissolves in your mouth—but instead, it felt like meat dissolving with blood.”
Meanwhile, Punjas has reaffirmed its commitment to consumer safety and transparency, and says it is happy to assist with any further clarification needed.
