Why Is Konjac Root Banned in Australia? Side Effects (2024)

FAQs

Why Is Konjac Root Banned in Australia? Side Effects? ›

Glucomannan, which is konjac root fiber, is used as a thickening agent in certain foods. Although allowed in noodles in Australia, it was banned as a supplement in 1986 because of its potential to be a choking hazard and block the stomach. Mini-cup jelly containing konjac is also banned in Australia.

Konjac noodles have twice as much fibre as regular pasta. Its fibre glucomannan, is banned in Australia because it causes the stomach to swell to create the feeling of being full. However it is not banned is tablet form. The Japanese noodles are known for their tastelessness due to their thin, gel-like consistency.

While konjac can affect the digestive system positively by relieving constipation, it might also have some negative effects on it, like bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort, according to a 2021 review in Trends in Food Science & Technology.

Several countries have banned the use of konjac because of the high incidence of bowel or throat obstruction. Children and pregnant or breastfeeding people should not take konjac supplements. Stop taking konjac and get medical help if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as: difficulty breathing.

Konjac's high-fiber properties may lead to diarrhea, gas, bloating and other upset stomach symptoms, according to study findings.

Konjac, pronounced like “Cognac,” is known by any of several names, including konnyaku, voodoo lily, snake palm, elephant yam, and of course, devil's tongue. It takes its sinister nickname from the dark reddish-purple spadix that juts from the center of the plant, much like a pointy, lurid tongue.

While the konjac noodles seem like a miracle discovery with few calories and carbohydrates, I would caution you to consume them in moderation like you would any other food. You need a balance of macronutrients to feel your best and you don't want to get too much of any individual food (even healthy ones).

Adding konjac foods to your diet may help promote digestion and relieve constipation. However, like other foods that contain high amounts of fiber, overconsumption of konjac may cause diarrhea.

Konjac contains short-chain carbohydrates called FODMAPs. Although fermentable carbohydrate in konjac has health benefits, some people may be unable to digest it. These carbohydrates are fermented in the intestines and cause gastrointestinal problems such as gas, stomachache, and cramps.

“It is best not to eat konjac rice at every meal. Otherwise, eat high-iron and high-calcium foods at a different time or meal in which you have konjac rice.” You'll know you have overdone the konjac if you suffer from bloat, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and nausea, said Reutens.

Is it OK to eat konjac? ›

The most common health benefits associated with the Konjac are: Digestion and constipation relief: Adding glucomannan from konjac to one's diet can decrease constipation and improve the microbiome. Weight loss: Its high fiber content can help you feel full longer, thereby reducing snacking and aiding weight loss.

FDA to include konjac carbohydrate as dietary fiber following two year wait. 14 Jan 2020 --- Glucomannan, which is found in the root of the konjac plant (also known as the elephant yam), is set to be added to the US definition of dietary fiber.

The total cholesterol levels in the liver were significantly lower in rats fed 10% refined konjac meal than in those fed 1% cholesterol at four weeks. At 12 weeks, however, all treated groups showed reduced total cholesterol in the liver in comparison with the high-cholesterol control group.

Common ones include bloating, diarrhea, gas, upset stomach, and burping (Wharton, 2019). It's rare, but there have been occasional reports of more severe reactions. For example, supplements can expand inside your digestive tract and cause a blockage.

Konjac products may have health benefits. For example, they may lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, improve skin and gut health, help heal wounds, and promote weight loss. As with any unregulated dietary supplement, it is best to speak to a doctor before taking konjac.

As you can see, weight loss was significantly greater among those who supplemented with glucomannan. Several other studies agree with these results. Glucomannan caused modest weight loss in overweight and obese individuals when regularly ingested before a meal ( 9 , 10 , 11 ).

Inspection. Mini jelly cups containing konjac that are 45mm or less in width or length are: banned for sale under the Australian Consumer Law within the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. prohibited for import under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.

Planting konjac

For example, if a tuber is 15cm wide, then it should be covered by at least 15cm of soil or potting mix. In Australia, konjac is best grown in a large pot, rather than in the garden.

FDA to include konjac carbohydrate as dietary fiber following two year wait. 14 Jan 2020 --- Glucomannan, which is found in the root of the konjac plant (also known as the elephant yam), is set to be added to the US definition of dietary fiber.

The Lethal Risk in Jelly Cups

Unlike other ingredients, konjac does not dissolve easily, creating a serious choking hazard as it can turn the jelly into a solid plug that blocks airways. This risk is especially acute for children, making the presence of konjac in jelly cups illegal in Australia for more than 20 years.