Veterinary drug chloramphenicol found in common oriental clam sample

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (December 6) that a sample of common oriental clam was detected with a veterinary drug, chloramphenicol. The CFS is following up on the case.

"The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a stall in Kowloon City Market for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained chloramphenicol at a level of 190 micrograms per kilogram. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence," the spokesman said.

According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no fish (including shell fish) sold in Hong Kong for human consumption is allowed to contain chloramphenicol. 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 case, including tracing the source of the affected product to safeguard food safety and public health.

Ends/Tuesday, December 6, 2016