A melon product not in compliance with Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation

Food name: Melon
Pesticide name: Thiamethoxam
Detected level: 0.91 parts per million
Maximum residue limit 0.5 parts per million
Sampling location: The Centre for Food Safety collected the melon sample at import level.

Remarks:
  1. The Centre for Food Safety has instructed the vendor to stop selling the affected product.
  2. According to the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM), any person who sells food with pesticide residues above the maximum residue limit may be prosecuted and is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction.
  3. Based on the level of Thiamethoxam detected in the sample, risk assessment showed that adverse health effects are unlikely under usual consumption.
  4. The Centre for Food Safety will follow up on the unsatisfactory testing result, including tracing the source of the food in question and taking samples for testing.
  5. Investigation is ongoing.

END/Friday May 9, 2025