A popular melon cream bun sold at convenience stores has been recalled following consumer complaints of a foul odor. A local media report on Thursday revealed the pungent problem: durian flavoring was accidentally used in place of melon flavoring.
Reports of an unpleasant smell, which some customers described as “sewer-like,” had quickly spread online, prompting a surge in refund and exchange requests as many shared similar experiences. The distributor confirmed that around 20,000 buns were removed from circulation following the reports.
According to Channel A, the odor was not caused by spoilage, but a manufacturing mix-up. At the production facility, durian flavoring was mistakenly used in place of melon due to a labeling error.
While durian is widely consumed across parts of Asia and often referred to as the “king of fruits,” it is not commonly eaten in South Korea, and many consumers are unfamiliar with its smell or flavor.
The distributor added that all affected products have been fully recalled and replaced with correctly manufactured items, now back on sale.
tammy@heraldcorp.com
