CFS finds acetic acid of batch of prepackaged vinegar below legal standard

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Department today (November 17) announced that a sample of prepackaged vinegar, imported from Italy, was found with acetic acid below the legal standard for food composition. The CFS is following up on the case.

Product details are as follows:

Product name: Cavedoni Blue Label 10Y Balsamic
Vinegar of Modena
Place of origin: Italy
Manufacturer: Antica Acetaia Cavedoni dal 1860
Best-before date: December 31, 2025
Volume: 250 millilitres per bottle

A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the sample from a supermarket in Central under its routine Food Surveillance Programme for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained 3.3 grams of acetic acid in 100 cubic centimetres, below the legal standard of no less than 4 grams of acetic acid in 100 cubic centimetres of the vinegar.

"Although consuming vinegar with acetic acid below the legal standard would not pose any health concern, the sample did not meet the legal requirement on the composition of vinegar as stated in the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap 132W)."

According to the regulation, if the composition of food available for sale in Hong Kong does not confirm with the legal requirements, the maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.

The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and has instructed it to stop sale of the affected batch of the product. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence. The CFS will also alert the trade to the case and continue to follow up to safeguard public health.

Ends/Tuesday, November 17, 2015