MOH: Serving Coffee with Charcoal Trend is Harmful to Health, May Land You Up to 2-Year Jail, RM10k Fine

The Health Ministry (MOH) has issued concerns over a recent trend in Malaysia of drinking “Kopi Joss” or adding burning charcoal to coffee drinks.

The drink, which originated from Indonesia and involved putting a lump of burning charcoal for a unique taste and claims of body detoxification has reportedly been trending in our country and caused debates on social media.

As reported by BERNAMA, MOH has clarified that such a practice is actually an offence under the Food Regulations 1985 and operators of food premises found serving Kopi Joss may face strict actions.

Specifically, if found guilty of the offence, one may face a fine of up to RM10,000 or imprisonment for up to 2 years.

Furthermore, MOH also stressed that such a practice is dangerous, with many health experts saying that it could cause adverse effects on the body such as bloating, diarrhoea and appendicitis.

MOH asserted,

“Ready-to-drink coffee is subject to Regulation 269A of the Food Regulations 1985, which only allows the addition of sugar, dextrose, glucose or honey, milk, cream, other foodstuffs and permitted flavourings. Charcoal is not categorised as a food,”

The Ministry added that hot charcoal added directly to coffee is different from the activated charcoal commonly used in the food industry. The latter undergoes processing and purification which makes it safe for consumption.

So, what do you guys think of the trend of adding burning charcoal to coffee in Malaysia? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

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