Updates on testing of dairy products

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has been closely monitoring the Mainland's milk powder incident, and will continue taking active measures to ensure food safety, its Controller, Dr Constance Chan, said.

Speaking at a press conference today (September 17), Dr Chan said: "In view of latest developments, CFS staff members have inspected local retail outlets in the past few days and collected 30 dairy product samples for tests. These included international brands of milk powder that are manufactured on the Mainland, other dairy products, and drinks made of Mainland milk powder.

"Results available so far indicated that except for the sample of yoghurt flavoured ice bar announced yesterday, all the others are free of melamine.

"Following up on the list of test results of infant formula announced by the Mainland authorities, CFS staff members continued inspecting dispensaries, retail chains and supermarket outlets this morning. So far none of the products concerned are found in the local market. Inspections are on-going.

"We have also informed local traders and milk powder importers of the Mainland list and urged them to stop selling the concerned products for the time being if they are in stock.

"The CFS also took another 40 samples of Mainland-produced dairy drinks, ice-cream, ice bars and yoghurt. Test results are pending and will be announced once available.

"We will continue to collect dairy product samples in the local market for testing and monitor the situation closely."

Ends/Wednesday, September 17, 2008