CFS finds traces of malachite green in fourfinger thread fin sample

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (May 12) announced that a fourfinger thread fin sample was found to contain a trace amount of malachite green. Follow-up is in progress.

A CFS spokesman said, "The CFS collected the sample from PARKnSHOP Superstore in Choi Yuen Estate, Sheung Shui, under its regular Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that it contained malachite green at a level of 13 parts per billion.

"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 taken follow-up action, including informing the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructing it to stop sale of the affected batch of the product. According to the information provided by the vendor, there was no remaining stock of the affected batch. The CFS will trace the source and distribution of the affected product.

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

Ends/Thursday, May 12, 2016