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The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) today (January 25) held a meeting with the trade on issues relating to oilfish.
"Those attending, including representatives of importers, wholesalers, retailers and caterers, agreed to stop importing and selling oilfish, and not to use oilfish for catering purposes," a CFS spokesman said.
"Trade representatives also agreed to verify species of their remaining stock of cod fish before putting them on sale and to dispose of any remaining oilfish."
Due to the presence of indigestible wax ester in oilfish, consumption of the fish may cause oily diarrhoea to some people.
"The CFS has made reference to some overseas information and learned that oilfish is only banned in Japan and Italy while most of the other countries, including the United States, Australia and United Kingdom, only issue advisories to remind consumers of the potential risks in consuming oilfish. Australia has also advised that oilfish should not be used for catering purposes.
"In line with international practice, the Centre has informed the public and the trade earlier about the associated risks. Since then, quite a number of complaints and enquiries have been made to the CFS while the trade is also aware of the public's reservations over consumption of cod fish. As such, trade representatives at today's meeting agreed to stop importing and selling oilfish.
"The CFS also reminds the trade the need to obtain fish supplies from reliable sources and check the fish types. For pre-packaged fish and fish products, they should label them with proper fish names and other relevant information before sale.
"The CFS and the Customs and Excise Department are following up with the cases relating to labelling issues of PARKnSHOP. Prosecution will be initiated if there is sufficient evidence."
The public can call the hotline 2868 0000 for enquiries and complaints concerning oilfish.
Ends/Thursday, January 25, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:40
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