Sample of imported swordfish sashimi detected with methylmercury exceeding legal limit
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"The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop, named Oi-Shi-Sushi, for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained methylmercury at a level of 1.4 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the legal limit of 0.5 ppm," a spokesman for the CFS said.
The spokesman said that the CFS had informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected product. The CFS is also tracing the source and distribution of the product concerned.
"Methylmercury is the major form of mercury in fish. At high levels, mercury can affect foetal brain development, and affect vision, hearing, muscle co-ordination and memory in adults. Furthermore, as some international organisations such as the World Health Organization have pointed out, consuming predatory fish species is the main source of mercury intake for human beings. The report of the CFS's Total Diet Study has also pointed out that large fish or predatory fish species may contain high mercury levels (for example, tuna, alfonsino, shark, swordfish, marlin, orange roughy and king mackerel). Hence, groups particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of mercury, such as pregnant women, women planning a pregnancy and young children should opt for fish that are smaller in size for consumption and avoid consumption of the above-mentioned types of fish to minimise excessive exposure to metal contaminants in food," the spokesman added.
According to the Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations (Cap. 132V), any person who sells food with metallic contamination above the legal limit is liable upon conviction to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months.
ýÿThe CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. Investigation is ongoing.
Ends/Tuesday, July 2, 2024
Issued at HKT 19:30
Issued at HKT 19:30
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