ATF WARNS ABOUT ALCOHOL IN GINSENG PRODUCTS

WASHINGTON (AP) The government is warning that ginseng products sold at
healthfood and convenience stores may contain up to 34 percent alcohol.

Only seven of 55 different ginseng products tested by the Treasury
Department's Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms contained no alcohol.
All the others had varying amounts, including some that were as much as
onethird alcohol.

The alcohol content came to the agency's attention after several inquiries,
including one from New York state, where a public school teacher notified
authorities after several students fell asleep in class.

Ginseng is a bittersweet root, native to China. It's purported to cure
everything from the common cold to failing memory to impotence. It's
usually sold in small vials for about $1 and can be found near checkout
counters alongside gum, candy and other items.

The agency said Thursday it issued its warning ``to assist consumers in
making informed purchasing decisions ... (including) persons with health
conditions, persons who may be taking medications, or persons with other
sensitivities to alcohol who could experience adverse effects.''

The ATF asked the U.S. Customs Service to detain ginseng products
determined to be alcoholic beverages and is working with importers and
distributors to recall the products.