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Sudan Dyes Found in Eggs
(Updated on 28 November 2006)
Background
There are recent concerns that non-permitted Sudan dyes were used in
poultry feeds to enhance the colour of egg yolks, in particular those
labelled as "red yolk" eggs. Follow-up investigation conducted by Mainland
authorities and the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) both revealed that Sudan
dyes were present in some duck and hen egg samples.
Actions Taken by the Centre for Food Safety
The CFS is highly concerned of the incident. Close liaison has been maintained
with Mainland authorities and the trade to keep updated of the latest
situation.
The CFS has immediately stepped up surveillance in the local markets.
Among the some 180 samples tested, 7 were positive for Sudan dyes (2 salted
duck eggs, both labelled as "red yolk", one from Fujian and the other
from Hubei; 5 hen eggs reported to come from Hunan).
Upon the request of the CFS, the General Administration of Quality Supervision,
Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) agreed on the temporarily suspension
of export of hen eggs from Hunan Province to Hong Kong.
The CFS will closely monitor the situation, and will keep the public
posted of the latest situation.
What are Sudan dyes?
Sudan dyes are synthetic chemical dyes which can be used for colouring
hydrocarbon solvents, oils, fats, waxes and plastics. In food, the main
concern is its cancer causing potential.
In Hong Kong, Sudan dyes are non-permitted colouring matters under the
Colouring Matter in Food Regulations, Cap.132H. Based on the present information
regarding the levels of Sudan dyes found in the affected eggs, risk assessment
suggested that usual consumption of eggs is unlikely to pose significant
health effect. However, the health risk would be greater for people who
frequently eat extremely large amounts of eggs.
Advice to Trade
- Traders are urged to be cautious about the origins from which they
source their eggs, and should do so from credible sources only.
- Traders are urged to stop importing or selling those products labelled
as "red yolk" eggs.
- Contravention of the Regulation is liable to a maximum fine of HK$50,000
and imprisonment of six months.
Advice to Consumers
- Based on present information regarding the levels of Sudan dyes found
in the affected eggs, usual consumption of eggs is unlikely to pose
significant health risk. There should be no cause for undue concern.
- Members of the public, however, are advised to buy eggs from reputable
shops. They should pay special attention to the origin of the eggs,
and should avoid buying those eggs of unknown origin or if they are
unreasonably cheap.
- Members of the public should avoid buying and eating those products
labelled as "red yolk" eggs. If they notice any sale of such products
in the market, they should immediately report it to the CFS via 24 hour
hotline (2868 0000) for our follow-up action.
Further information
Further information about Sudan dyes and the incident can be obtained
from the following webpages:
Centre for Food Safety
28 November 2006
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