Two preserved vegetable samples detected with preservatives exceeding legal limit

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 2) that two prepackaged preserved vegetable samples were found to contain a preservative, sulphur dioxide, at levels exceeding the legal limit. The trade should stop using or selling the affected batches of the products immediately.

Product details are as follows:

(1) Product name: Pickled Mustard
Place of origin: Thailand
Distributor: Kong Thai Native Foods Co
Net weight: 350 grammes/12.3 ounces per pack
Best-before date: April 20, 2018

(2) Product name: Suree Sour Mustard
Place of origin: Thailand
Sole agent: Fok Hing (Hong Kong) Trading Limited
Net weight: 300 grammes/10.5 ounces per pack
Best–before date: May 12, 2018

"The CFS collected the above-mentioned samples from two retails outlets in Yau Ma Tei and Lam Tin respectively under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the pickled mustard and sour mustard samples contained sulphur dioxide at levels of 264 parts per million (ppm) and 174ppm respectively, exceeding the legal limit of 100 ppm," the spokesman said.

The CFS has informed the vendors concerned of the irregularities and the vendors have stopped selling and removed from shelves the affected batches of the products according to the instructions of the CFS. The CFS is also tracing the sources and distribution of the affected products.

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. Based on the level of sulphur dioxide detected in the unsatisfactory samples, adverse health effects will not be caused under normal consumption. However, for individuals who are allergic to this preservative, there may be symptoms of shortness of breath, headache and nausea. The public are advised to seek medical treatment if they feel unwell after taking the food.

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

Ends/Tuesday, August 2, 2016