CFS finds traces of malachite green in two samples of different kinds of canned fried dace
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A CFS spokesman said, "The CFS took two different kinds of canned fried dace samples of the same brand from a supermarket in North Point for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. Results showed that malachite green was found in the two samples at respective levels of three parts per billion (ppb) and eight ppb respectively."
"Although only traces of malachite green have been found in the samples, Hong Kong law does not allow food to contain malachite green," he added.
Product details are as follows:
(1) Product name: Yupin fried dace with salted blackbeans
Retail Outlet: Wellcome Supermarket at City Garden, Electric Road, North Point
Place of origin: China
Agent: Chinalink International Enterprises Ltd
Net weight: 184 grams / 6.5 ounces
Best-before date: January 7, 2018
(2) Product name: Yupin fried dace with preserved vegetable
Retail Outlet: Wellcome Supermarket at City Garden, Electric Road, North Point
Place of origin: China
Agent: Chinalink International Enterprises Ltd
Net weight: 184 grams / 6.5 ounces
Best-before date: April 9, 2018
"Malachite green is a type of industrial dye and has been used for treating infection in fish. Major agricultural economies such as the Mainland, the European Union, Canada and the United States prohibit the use of the chemical in food fish. According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no food sold in Hong Kong is allowed to contain malachite green. Offenders will be prosecuted and will be liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction."
The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularities. Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be initiated. The CFS has also instructed the vendor concerned to stop sale of the affected batches of the two products. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident and trace the source and distribution of the affected products. The trade should also stop selling the products concerned.
The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action.
Ends/Monday, November 21, 2016
Issued at HKT 20:21
Issued at HKT 20:21
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