Have you had ‘Pine Mouth’?

The service has been asked to assess the size of the problem in the county by the Food Standards Agency.

Graeme MacPherson, Head of Trading Standards Service, said: “’Pine Mouth’ is the name for the bitter aftertaste in the mouth you get after eating poor quality pine nuts.

“It’s a harmless but unpleasant condition that usually disappears after a few days. However, there have been reports of it lasting as long as two weeks.

“The problem is not a new one. But West Sussex Trading Standards Service urges consumers to report any new cases – where you bought the nuts, batch details if you have them and how long the symptoms lasted.”

“This will enable us to accurately assess the extent of the problem. This information will then be passed onto to the Food Standards Agency.”

Pete Bradbury, County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “This work on behalf of the Food Standards Agency is in line with the Trading Standards Service’s policy of protecting consumers against poor quality food.”

If you experience a bitter taste after eating pine nuts call 01243 642124.