Frozen lobster tail sample detected with preservative exceeding legal limit

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 4) announced that a frozen lobster tail sample was found to contain a preservative, sulphur dioxide, at a level exceeding the legal limit. The CFS is following up on the case.

A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop with a Prepackaged Chilled and Frozen Shell Fish Permit for testing under its regular Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained sulphur dioxide at a level of 233 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the legal limit of 100 ppm."

The spokesman said the CFS has taken follow-up actions on the unsatisfactory sample, including informing the online vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructing it to stop the sale of the affected product. The CFS is also tracing the source and distribution of the affected product.

Sulphur dioxide is a commonly used preservative in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables, processed meat and aquatic products. This preservative is of low toxicity. As it is water soluble, most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience symptoms of shortness of breath, headache and nausea. The spokesman advised the public to consult a doctor if they feel unwell after consuming the food. Based on the level of sulphur dioxide detected in the unsatisfactory sample, adverse health effects will not be caused under usual consumption.

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 chemicals as a result of frequent consumption of a small range of food items.

The CFS will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action.

Ends/Wednesday, January 4, 2017