The Health Ministry has banned the import of manuka honey made by New Zealand's Evergreen Life effective today following the withdrawal of the product in that country as it may contain prohibited substances.

Health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said honey products made by Evergreen Life Ltd in New Zealand were withdrawn as they may contain prohibited substances such as dihydroxyacetone and methylglyoxal used in its processes.

Consumers who had bought the product have been advised to not consume the products and should return the items to the shop, he said in a statement in Putrajaya today.

"Even though there is no danger in food safety, consumers who have consumed the product and have doubts about their health can refer to their doctors for medical advice," he said.

Commenting further, Dr Noor Hisham said the ministry was taking follow-up action after the withdrawal of products had been reported in the New Zealand Primary Industries Ministry's website. - Bernama