Public warned against consuming fresh bamboo shoot containing sulphur dioxide

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 29) urged the public not to consume a kind of loose-pack fresh bamboo shoot containing sulphur dioxide, a preservative not permitted in fresh bamboo shoots.

A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected a sample of loose-pack fresh bamboo shoot from Justjoy, a vegetable stall in Chun Yeung Street, North Point, for testing under its regular Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that it contained a preservative, sulphur dioxide, at a level of 180 parts per million (ppm)."

Sulphur dioxide is a commonly used preservative in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and meat products. This preservative is of low toxicity. As it is water soluble, most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience symptoms of shortness of breath, headache and nausea.

The spokesman said the Centre had informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop selling and remove from shelves the affected product. The CFS is tracing the source and distribution of the affected product. Prosecution will be considered.

The spokesman reminded the food trade that the use of preservatives in food must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap 132BD). Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. Members of the public should buy food from reliable suppliers, and maintain a balanced diet so as to avoid excessive intake of certain harmful substances as a result of frequent consumption of a small range of food items.

The spokesman advised consumers who have bought the product and are allergic to sulphur dioxide to stop eating it. People should seek medical treatment if they feel unwell after consuming the food.

The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action.

Ends/Wednesday, July 29, 2015