Test results of canned pork products

In response to media reports about detection of veterinary drug residues in some brands of canned pork products in Singapore , the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has taken 11 samples of similar products of the same brands, namely MaLing, Narcissus and Gulong, from the local market for testing.

Test results available today (December 3) showed that 10 samples, including 5 pork luncheon meat, 2 ham luncheon meat and 3 spiced pork cubes, were free from nitrofurans. But one sample "Shanghai MaLing B2 Pork Luncheon Meat (Less sodium)" (340 g) was found to contain 0.0022 ppm of a metabolite of nitrofurans. The batch number is B2 5 for this product, which also carries a best before date of 26.12.2009.  According to the sole agent of the product, the affected canned food was imported on two occasions – December 2006 and January 2007, and there was no further import since then.

"Based on the low level of nitrofurans detected, normal consumption should not pose any serious health risks to consumers.

As a precautionary measure, the sole agent has initiated a recall and suspended sale of the affected canned food. The sole agent also welcomed return of the said products from retailers. We would continue to follow up the case and take further samples for testing," a CFS spokesman said.

Ends/Monday, December 3, 2007