CFS finds traces of malachite green in two eel samples

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (June 16) announced that two eel samples were found to contain trace amounts of malachite green. Follow-up is in progress.

A CFS spokesman said, "Subsequent to finding an eel sample containing a trace amount of malachite green from a fresh provision shop (English name not available) in Tai Ping Market, East Point Centre, Quarry Bay, last week, the CFS further took one eel sample for testing. The test result showed that the sample also contained a trace amount of malachite green at a level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). The CFS has instructed the vendor to stop sale of the affected batch of the product and source tracing is under way. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence.

"Furthermore, the CFS has enhanced surveillance on eels available for sale in the local market and five eel samples were taken recently for testing. One of the eel samples, which was prepackaged and taken from PARKnSHOP Superstore at Shop No. 11-15, Level 1, Fanling Town Centre, was found to contain a trace amount of malachite green at a level of 8.3 ppb. The remaining four samples passed the tests."

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 is no stock of the affected batch of the product. The CFS will trace the source and distribution of the affected product.

"Malachite green is a type of industrial dye and has been used for treating infections 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 will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action. Investigation is ongoing.

Ends/Thursday, June 16, 2016