Silver pin noodle sample detected with preservative ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 15) that a loose-packed silver pin noodle sample was found to contain ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate, a preservative not permitted in pre-cooked pastas and noodles. Investigation is ongoing.

"The CFS collected the above-mentioned silver pin noodle sample from a retail shop in Yuen Long under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate at a level of 113 parts per million," the spokesman said.

According to the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap 132BD), ethyl para-hydroxybenzoate is not permitted in pre-cooked pastas and noodles and similar products (including silver pin noodles). The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.

The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale and remove from shelves the kind of affected product. The CFS is tracing the source of the affected product.

The CFS will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health.

Ends/Tuesday, August 15, 2017