The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (December 31) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 8 600 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for six unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 2,400 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 6 200 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 3,300 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 500 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 1,000 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 900 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 1,000 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 1,900 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The six unsatisfactory samples comprised an imported sweet potato sample, an imported crab sample and an imported cooked barley sample with excessive metallic contaminants; a fresh beef sample found with sulphur dioxide; a grilled eel sample found with malachite green, and an imported frozen confection sample detected with total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items, and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, in response to the Japanese Government's discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Tuesday, December 31, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241231_11374.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (December 30) announced the results of a risk assessment study on the microbiological quality of packaged rice balls. All samples were compliant with the microbiological food safety criteria for pathogenic bacteria (i.e. Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus). The overall result was satisfactory. A spokesman for the CFS said, "Rice balls in convenient packages can facilitate consumers to consume them on-the-go and has thus gained in popularity. The CFS conducted a study and collected 63 pairs of samples of packaged rice balls from four takeaway chains and five supermarket chains or convenience store chains in different regions of Hong Kong between February and March this year. The change in microbiological quality after leaving the samples concerned under ambient conditions for a period of time was assessed against the criteria stipulated in Microbiological Guidelines for Food." The study results showed that the overall microbiological quality of the samples was satisfactory. Only one rice ball sample with braised salmon was detected to have an excessive level of E. coli, resulting in an unsatisfactory rating for hygienic quality, but there was no food safety concern. This indicated that there may be room for improvement in the food manufacturing and handling processes. The CFS has provided advice on the food preparatory process to the concerned manufacturer. A follow-up sample was taken, and the result was satisfactory. Furthermore, regarding the change in microbiological quality of packaged rice balls after leaving the samples concerned under ambient conditions for a period of time, among the 58 samples to which the aerobic colony count (ACC) criterion was applicable, only one sample kept at ambient conditions after purchase for four hours was found to be borderline for ACC, while all the others were found to be satisfactory. However, three of these samples had an ACC more than 10 times higher than the control samples that were refrigerated at 4°C or below immediately after purchase. The ACC is an indicator of quality rather than safety and hence does not indicate a food safety concern. Nevertheless, the ACC can provide useful information about the general quality and remaining shelf life of the food. The food trade should follow Good Hygiene Practices at all times and consider the advice below regarding the safe handling of packaged rice balls: Members of the public are also reminded to take heed of the following recommendations to ensure the food safety of packaged rice balls: The study is available on the CFS's website at www.cfs.gov.hk. Ends/Monday, December 30, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241230_11368.html)

The Preservatives in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2024 (Amendment Regulation) comes into effect today (December 30), updating food safety standards in relation to preservatives and antioxidants in food. A Government spokesman said that the Amendment Regulation has updated the definitions of "preservative" and "antioxidant" with reference to the corresponding definitions adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The list of permitted preservatives/antioxidants has also been updated, and comprises 58 preservatives/antioxidants after the legislative amendments. The number of "additive-food" pairs with specified maximum permitted levels has increased from around 900 to around 2,000. The spokesman added that to allow sufficient time for the relevant stakeholders to adjust to the new food safety standards and for local testing laboratories to establish the capability for performing relevant tests, as well as considering the longer shelf life of processed and pre-packaged foods that may contain preservatives or antioxidants, the commencement of the Amendment Regulation will be followed by a 24-month transitional period, which will end on December 29, 2026. During this period, it will be legal for any single food item to comply wholly with the requirements of either Cap. 132BD as it was in force immediately before the commencement date or Cap. 132BD as amended by the Amendment Regulation. For details of the Amendment Regulation, please refer to www.cfs.gov.hk/english/whatsnew/whatsnew_fstr/whatsnew_fstr_Proposed_Amendments_Preservatives_Food_Regulation.html. The Centre for Food Safety under the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has issued updated user guidelines to facilitate the trade's compliance. Ends/Monday, December 30, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241230_11369.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (December 23) that a soft ice cream sample was found to contain a total bacterial count exceeding the legal limit. The CFS is following up on the incident. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a restaurant in Causeway Bay for testing when following up on a related food incident. The test result showed that the sample contained 160,000 bacteria per gram, exceeding the legal limit. "The CFS has conducted investigation to the food premises immediately, took food samples for laboratory testing, and informed the food premises concerned of the irregularity. Investigation revealed that the ice cream was produced in the food premises concerned. The restaurant has already stopped selling and discarded the affected product according to the CFS's advice. The CFS has also provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the restaurant, and requested it to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence," the spokesman said. Under the Frozen Confections Regulation (Cap. 132AC), frozen confection for sale should not contain more than 50,000 bacteria per gram. The maximum penalty for offenders is a fine of $10,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction. The fact that the total bacterial count exceeded the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Ends/Monday, December 23, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241223_11360.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department released the first report under the Second Hong Kong Total Diet Study today (December 20). This report examined the levels of sulphites in food and the associated dietary exposure. The findings showed that the Hong Kong population's dietary exposure to sulphites was well below the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) allocated for sulphites, indicating a low health concern. The Second Hong Kong Total Diet Study aims to estimate the latest dietary exposure of the Hong Kong population and various population subgroups to some chemical substances of potential food safety concern, and in turn assess the associated health risks. The Study commenced in February 2023. A total of over 2 200 samples of over 180 food items were collected and prepared to the status in which the food could be normally consumed. The prepared samples were then pooled to form over 370 composite samples for laboratory analysis of various groups of chemical substances covering food additives, metallic contaminants, mycotoxins, persistent organic pollutants, pesticide residues and process contaminants, etc. In this report, sulphites (including sulphur dioxide) refer to a group of multifunctional food additives, particularly as preservatives and antioxidants, which have a long history of use in food production. A spokesman for the CFS said, "Acute toxicity of sulphites is low. However, chronic excessive exposure to sulphites was found to cause local irritation of the stomach and induce adverse effects on the central nervous system in experimental animals. Exposure to sulphites may lead to bronchoconstriction and other adverse reactions in certain population subgroups with allergic conditions." The Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives allocated a group ADI of 0 to 0.7 milligram/kilogram body weight (bw) to sulphites. Out of a total of 185 food items tested for sulphites, only 17 (about 9 per cent) were found to contain sulphites. Dried fruits were detected with the highest mean concentration of sulphites (240 mg/kg), followed by button mushrooms, red and white wine, and preserved vegetables, with a mean concentration of 20 to 30 mg/kg. The remaining food items with detectable levels of sulphites were found with a mean concentration of 10 mg/kg or below. According to the findings, the estimated dietary exposure was 0.010 to 0.037 mg/kg bw/day and 0.021 to 0.055 mg/kg bw/day for average and high consumers of the adult population respectively, which accounted for 1.5 to 5.3 per cent and 3.0 to 7.9 per cent of the ADI allocated for sulphites. For the younger population (aged 6 to 17), the estimated dietary exposure was 0.012 to 0.051 mg/kg bw/day and 0.028 to 0.078 mg/kg bw/day for average and high consumers respectively, which accounted for 1.8 to 7.3 per cent and 3.9 to 11 per cent of the ADI. The spokesman reminded members of the public to maintain a balanced diet to avoid excessive exposure to sulphites from a small range of food. When purchasing prepackaged food products, consumers can refer to the food labels to know whether the products contain sulphites. In particular, susceptible individuals who are sensitive to sulphites should avoid foods that contain sulphites by paying close attention to the food labels. The Second Hong Kong Total Diet Study commenced in February 2023 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The reports of other groups of chemical substances will be released in phases and uploaded to the CFS webpage at www.cfs.gov.hk. Ends/Friday, December 20, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241220_11355.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (December 17) instructed the trade to suspend the import of raw oysters harvested in area 17.C.11 in France. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately should they possess it. ​A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS was notified by the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health of seven food poisoning cases which involved consumption of raw oysters at different restaurants. The CFS conducted investigations at the restaurants concerned and found that the restaurants concerned had sold raw oysters which had been harvested in area 17.C.11 in France. For the sake of prudence, the CFS has immediately instructed the trade to suspend the import into and sale within Hong Kong of all raw oysters harvested in area 17.C.11 in France." ​The CFS has also instructed the suppliers and restaurants concerned to stop supplying and selling the affected raw oysters immediately, and is tracing the distribution of the affected product. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately should they possess it. The spokesman pointed out that as oysters feed by filtering a large volume of seawater, pathogens can accumulate in them if they are grown in or harvested from contaminated water. Raw or partially cooked oysters are high-risk foods. Susceptible groups, such as pregnant women, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems or liver diseases, should avoid eating raw oysters. ​The CFS will inform the French authorities and will also notify the local trade. It will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241217_11349.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (December 9) that a sample of milk flavoured ice cream was found to contain coliform bacteria and total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limits. The CFS is following up on the incident. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a light refreshment restaurant in Kowloon Bay for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained 69,000 coliform bacteria per gram and 1,200,000 bacteria per gram, both exceeding the legal limits. "The CFS has conducted investigation to the food premises immediately, took food samples for laboratory testing, and informed the food premises concerned of the irregularity. Investigation revealed that the ice cream was produced in the food premises concerned. The restaurant has already stopped selling and discarded the affected product according to the CFS's advice. The CFS has also provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the restaurant, and requested it to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence," the spokesman said. Under the Frozen Confections Regulation (Cap. 132AC), frozen confection for sale should not contain more than 100 coliform bacteria per gram or more than 50,000 bacteria per gram. The maximum penalty for offenders is a fine of $10,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction. The fact that the coliform count and the total bacterial count exceeded the legal limits indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean that consumption would lead to food poisoning. ​The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Ends/Monday, December 9, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241209_11326.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 29) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 6,500 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for five unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 2,500 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 4,000 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 1,700 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 400 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 900 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 1,300 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 600 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 1,600 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The five unsatisfactory samples comprised an imported frozen shrimp sample with an excessive metallic contaminant; a choi sum sample detected with a pesticide residue at a level exceeding the legal limit, and three imported clotted cream samples detected with total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, in response to the Japanese Government's discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage ( www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html ) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Friday, November 29, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241129_11308.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 28) said that subsequent to an earlier announcement that a kind of cheese imported from France might have been contaminated with Yersinia enterocolitica, a follow-up investigation showed that another batch of the affected product has also been imported to Hong Kong. The CFS urged the public not to consume the product concerned, regardless of batches. The trade should stop using or selling the affected product immediately if they possess any of it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Mont d'Or Fruitiere des Jarrons CheeseBrand: Fruitiere des JarronsPlace of origin: FranceImporter: Noja Fine Trade Limited A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS noted a notification from the French authorities that the above-mentioned batch of product might have been contaminated with Yersinia enterocolitica and is being recalled. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned importer had imported into Hong Kong the affected batch of the product." The importer concerned has stopped sales, removed from shelves the affected product upon the CFS's instructions and has initiated a recall. Members of the public may call the hotline of the importer at 2178 2229 during office hours for enquiries. "Yersinia enterocolitica can cause Yersiniosis, which is characterised by common symptoms of gastroenteritis such as fever, diarrhoea (often bloody in young children) and abdominal pain. The bacterium is usually acquired by eating or drinking contaminated food, including undercooked meat, unpasteurised milk products or contaminated water. Anyone can get Yersiniosis, but young children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems are at a higher risk," the spokesman said. The CFS will continue to follow up, closely liaise with the French authorities and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, November 28, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241128_11306.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 28) announced that malachite green was found in a grilled eel sample. The CFS is following up on the incident. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned grilled eel sample from a food premises in Central for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained malachite green at a level of 1.4 parts per billion." The spokesman said that the CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop selling the affected product. The CFS is also tracing the source and distribution of the product concerned. Malachite green is a type of industrial dye and has been used for treating infections in fish. Currently, malachite green has been prohibited for use in food-producing animals in many countries. According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no food sold in Hong Kong is allowed to contain malachite green. Offenders will be prosecuted and liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, November 28, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241128_11302.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (November 28) that a fresh beef sample was found to contain sulphur dioxide, a preservative which is not permitted to be used in fresh meat. The CFS is following up on the incident. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS, under its routine Food Surveillance Programme, took the fresh beef sample from a fresh provision shop (FPS) at Homantin Market in Kowloon City for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained sulphur dioxide at a level of 838 parts per million. The CFS is following up with the FPS concerned about the irregularity." According to the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD), it is an offence to add sulphur dioxide to fresh or chilled meat. The maximum penalty is a $50,000 fine and six months' imprisonment. Sulphur dioxide is a preservative which can be used in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and salted fish products, but under the Regulation it is not permitted in fresh or chilled meat. Individual meat traders have been found illegally using sulphur dioxide to make meat look fresher. Sulphur dioxide is water-soluble, and most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, susceptible individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience breathing difficulties, headaches and nausea after consumption. The spokesman reminded the food trade to comply with the law and not to sell fresh or chilled meat adulterated with sulphur dioxide. Members of the public should purchase meat from reliable market stalls or FPSs. They should avoid buying or consuming meat which is unnaturally red and maintain a balanced diet to avoid malnutrition or excessive exposure to chemicals from a small range of food items. ​The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, November 28, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241128_11304.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 22) urged the public not to consume a kind of cheese imported from France due to possible contamination with Yersinia enterocolitica. The trade should stop using or selling the product concerned immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Mont d'Or Fruitiere des Jarrons CheeseBrand: Fruitiere des JarronsPlace of origin: France Importer: Noja Fine Trade LimitedPack size: 500 gramsBest before date: December 16, 2024 A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS noted a notification from the French authorities that the above-mentioned product might have been contaminated with Yersinia enterocolitica and is being recalled. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned importer had imported into Hong Kong the product concerned." The importer concerned has stopped sales, removed from shelves the affected product and has initiated a recall. Members of the public may call the hotline of the importer at 2178 2229 during office hours for enquiries. "Yersinia enterocolitica can cause Yersiniosis, which is characterised by common symptoms of gastroenteritis such as fever, diarrhoea (often bloody in young children) and abdominal pain. The bacterium is usually acquired by eating or drinking contaminated food, including undercooked meat, unpasteurised milk products or contaminated water. Anyone can get Yersiniosis, but young children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems are at a higher risk," the spokesman said. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. Ends/Friday, November 22, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241122_11290.html)

​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 20) announced the test results of a recently completed seasonal food surveillance project on lap-mei. The test results of all 144 samples collected were satisfactory. A spokesman for the CFS said, "Lap-mei is popular in winter and the CFS has therefore collected a variety of lap-mei samples including Chinese pork sausages, Chinese liver sausages, preserved duck meat and preserved pork from different retailers including online retailers for chemical tests and nutrition content analyses." Chemical tests targeted veterinary drug residues, metallic contaminants, preservatives usually found in preserved food, as well as other food additives that may be used in the production process and colouring matters that are not permitted in food. For nutrition content analyses, the contents of energy, carbohydrates, protein, total fat, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, sodium and sugars of the samples were tested to check if they were consistent with their declared values on the nutrition label. "Members of the public should maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of lap-mei in view of its nitrate/nitrite level and potential risk of nitrosamine, as well as the relatively higher sodium, sugar and fat content in some lap-mei. Infants are highly susceptible to nitrite toxicity and should avoid consuming lap-mei, while for young children, the intake of lap-mei should also be restricted. "Furthermore, the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization has classified processed meat as 'carcinogenic to humans' (Group 1). The public should avoid excessive consumption of processed meat to reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer," the spokesman said. The spokesman also called on the trade to comply with the legal requirements, follow good manufacturing practices and use permitted food additives in an appropriate manner. Retailers should source food from reliable suppliers and maintain a good recording system in accordance with the Food Safety Ordinance to allow source tracing if needed. Ends/Wednesday, November 20, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 20) announced the test results of the seasonal food surveillance project on lap-mei. The test results of all 144 samples collected were satisfactory. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241120_11281.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 20) urged the public not to consume a kind of prepackaged carrots imported from the United States (US) due to possible contamination with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O121. The trade should stop using or selling the affected product immediately if they possess any of it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Organic Whole CarrotsManufacturer: Grimmway FarmsBrand: Bunny LuvPlace of origin: USNet weight: Two pounds per packImporter: PARKnSHOP (HK) LimitedAvailable for sale: Since August 23, 2024 from PARKnSHOP, Taste, Fusion and Great supermarkets A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS noted a notification from the Food and Drug Administration of the US that the above-mentioned product is being recalled in the US due to possible contamination with STEC O121. The CFS immediately contacted local importers for follow-up. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned importer had imported into Hong Kong the affected product concerned." As a precautionary measure, the importer concerned has stopped selling and removed from shelves the affected product upon the CFS's instructions and has initiated a recall. Members of the public may call the importer concerned at 2606 8658 during office hours for enquiries about the recall. Some strains of E. coli, e.g. E. coli O121, can cause diseases through the production of a toxin called Shiga toxin. These strains are called STEC. STEC infection is transmitted by faecal-oral route through contaminated food and water, or direct contact with STEC carrying animals. Moreover, due to poor personal hygiene, person-to-person transmission of this pathogen is possible through oral-faecal route. Symptoms of STEC infection include abdominal pain and watery diarrhoea that may in some cases progress to bloody diarrhoea. Fever and vomiting may also occur. Intestinal bleeding and serious complications such as hemolytic uraemic syndrome may also develop in some people. E. coli, including STEC, cannot survive under high temperature and can be killed by thorough cooking. The spokesman urged consumers not to consume the affected product if they have bought any. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected product immediately if they possess it. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing.  Ends/Wednesday, November 20, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241120_11284.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (November 19) that an aquatic product from a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the consignment of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found 120 packs of dried fish product processed in Saitama Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, November 19, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241119_11274.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (November 14) announced that a sample of imported sweet potato from the Mainland and a sample of imported crab from the Philippines were detected with lead and cadmium respectively, which are metallic contaminants, at levels exceeding the legal limits. "The CFS collected the above-mentioned samples at the import levels for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the sweet potato sample contained lead at a level of 0.5 parts per million, exceeding the legal limit of 0.1 ppm; while the crab sample contained cadmium at a level of 2.93 ppm, exceeding the legal limit of 2 ppm," a spokesman for the CFS said. "Long-term excessive dietary exposure to lead may cause anaemia and damage to the nervous system and kidneys, and long-term excessive intake of cadmium may affect the kidney functions. The CFS has informed the importers concerned of the irregularities and instructed them to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected products. The CFS is also tracing the sources and distributions of the products concerned," the spokesman added. According to the Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations (Cap. 132V), any person who sells food with metallic contamination above the legal limit is liable upon conviction to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. The CFS will alert the Mainland and Philippine authorities as well as the trade, and continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action. The investigations are ongoing. Ends/Thursday, November 14, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241114_11265.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (November 13) announced the test results of the seasonal food surveillance project on hairy crabs. All samples passed the tests. The tests included veterinary drug residues, metallic contaminants, synthetic hormones, colouring matters and pesticide residues, as well as dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). A spokesman for the CFS said, "From January 2024 to the end of October 2024, the CFS collected 101 hairy crab samples at the import and retail levels for chemical tests, and the test results were all satisfactory. The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on hairy crabs to ensure food safety." Traders should have obtained relevant permits or written permission granted by the FEHD for selling hairy crabs, and the hairy crabs being sold must be accompanied with health certificates issued by the relevant authorities of the exporting economies. They should source hairy crabs from reliable suppliers and comply with the relevant regulatory requirements. Moreover, hairy crabs for sale must be kept in a refrigerator. The CFS advises members of the public to observe the following Five Keys to Food Safety in purchasing, storing, preparing and cooking hairy crabs to prevent food-borne illnesses and enjoy the seasonal food safely. Choose wisely• Buy hairy crabs from reliable and hygienic shops with the Shell Fish (Hairy Crab) Permit or relevant written permission granted by the FEHD;• During purchase, check whether the hairy crabs for sale are kept in a refrigerator, and buy live crabs with intact, shiny shells and without a foul smell; and• For online purchase, buy from reliable online shops with licences or restricted food permits, and pay attention to the nature and potential risk associated with food items purchased online. Keep clean• Brush and wash the crab shells and claws before cooking; and• Wash hands with running water and soap, and rub for at least 20 seconds before consumption. Separate raw and cooked foods• Put the raw crabs in a container with a cover and store them separately from other foods in the refrigerator to avoid cross-contamination. Cook thoroughly• Avoid eating raw crabs. Cook thoroughly and remove internal organs completely before consumption. Condiments such as salt, vinegar, wine and wasabi cannot kill bacteria or parasites that may be present in the crabs. Safe temperature• Cooked crabs should be consumed as soon as possible. Ends/Wednesday, November 13, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241113_11257.html)

​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 16) that samples of prepackaged pasteurized Cornish clotted cream imported from the United Kingdom (UK) were detected with total bacterial count exceeding the legal limit. The affected batch of product has been marked and sealed, and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the incident. Product details are as follows: Product name: Cornish Clotted CreamBrand: M&S Place of origin: UKSole importer: Alf Retail Hong Kong LimitedPacking: 227 grams per packUse-by date: October 18, 2024 A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned samples at the import level for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the total bacterial count of the samples were 620,400, 1,128,000 and 1,504,000 per milliliter respectively. According to the Milk Regulation (Cap 132 AQ), milk after heat treatment by means of pasteurisation should not contain more than 30,000 bacteria per millilitre. The CFS has informed the importer concerned of the irregularity. An investigation revealed that the affected batch of the product is still stored in the importer's warehouse. It has not entered the local market. The CFS has temporarily suspended the permission to import for sale of the product concerned granted earlier to the importer. Other types of similar products of the same brand being sold in the market are not affected.　The spokesman said that the total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean it would lead to food poisoning.　The CFS has informed the British authorities of the incident, and will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action. Ends/Wednesday, October 16, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241016_11194.html)

The Government gazetted today (October 10) the Preservatives in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2024 (Amendment Regulation) to update the food safety standards in relation to preservatives and antioxidants in food. The objective of the Amendment Regulation is to keep local food safety standards on par with international standards, thereby enhancing consumer protection and facilitating the food trade. The Amendment Regulation has kept the standards of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (Codex) as the backbone, supplemented with those adopted by the Mainland and by Hong Kong's other major food-trading partners. A Government spokesman said, "A four-month public consultation was conducted from May 29 to September 30 last year, to collect views on the proposed amendments to the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD). Respondents and stakeholders generally welcomed and supported the proposed amendments. Taking into account the comments received during the public consultation, we have formulated the updated proposals, as reflected in the Amendment Regulation." The Amendment Regulation updates the definitions of "preservative" and "antioxidant" with reference to the corresponding definitions adopted by Codex. The list of permitted preservatives/antioxidants has also been updated, which comprises 58 preservatives/antioxidants after the legislative amendments. The number of "additive-food" pairs with specified maximum permitted levels has increased from around 900 to around 2 000. "We consider that the Amendment Regulation should be implemented as soon as possible. However, we acknowledge the importance of providing sufficient time for the stakeholders to adjust to the new food safety standards, and for the local testing laboratories to establish the capability for performing relevant tests. We have also taken into consideration the longer shelf life of processed and pre-packaged foods that may contain preservatives or antioxidants. On balance, we propose a transitional period of 24 months, during which it would be legal for any single food item to comply wholly with the requirements of either the existing or the amended Cap. 132BD," the spokesman added. The Amendment Regulation will be tabled at the Legislative Council on October 16 for negative vetting. Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241010_11184.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 3) that a seaweed product from a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the consignment of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found 30 packs of dried seaweed product manufactured in Ibaraki Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, October 3, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241003_11171.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (October 3) urged the public not to consume a batch of prepackaged butternut squash soup imported from United Kingdom (UK) as the product might contain pieces of metal. The CFS is following up on the case. Product details are as follows: Product name: Smooth Butternut Squash SoupBrand: M&SPlace of origin: United KingdomPack size: 600 gramsSole importer: Alf Retail Hong Kong LimitedUse-by date: October 6, 2024 A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS, through its Food Incident Surveillance System, has seen notices issued by the Food Standards Agency of the UK and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland that the above-mentioned product may contain pieces of metal, and is being recalled." Upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately followed up with major local importers and retailers. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned sole importer had imported the affected product, which was on sale in its chain stores. The importer has already stopped sales, removed from shelves the affected product and initiated a recall. Members of the public may call its hotline at 3656 2253 during office hours for enquiries about the recall. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, continue to follow up and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, October 3, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20241003_11175.html)

​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (September 30) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 6 100 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for nine unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 1 900 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 4 200 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 1 900 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 500 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 500 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 1 000 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 800 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 1 400 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The nine unsatisfactory samples comprised a crab sample with an excessive metallic contaminant; a prepackaged salad sample found to contain Salmonella; a frozen confection sample detected with coliform bacteria and total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit; three prepackaged frozen confection samples detected with total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit; a prepackaged egg-flavoured noodle sample detected with a preservative exceeding the legal limit; a prepackaged ice-cream sample and a prepackaged wheat starch sample in breach of food labelling regulations. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, in response to the Japanese Government's discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Monday, September 30, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240930_11165.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 25) that a sample of prepackaged frozen jade perch was detected with a veterinary drug, chloramphenicol. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. The CFS is following up on the case. Product details are as follows: Product name: JADE PERCH FISHBrand: (Not available in English)Net weight: 251 grams to 300gBest-before date: February 25, 2025Distributor: Inspire Foodie Limited A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained chloramphenicol at a level of one microgram per kilogram. "The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. According to the CFS's instructions, the distributor has initiated a recall on the affected batch of the product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 9778 8484 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned," the spokesman added. According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no fish (including shellfish) sold in Hong Kong for human consumption is allowed to contain chloramphenicol. Offenders will be liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction. The CFS will alert the trade and will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Wednesday, September 25, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240925_11158.html)

​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 20) that aquatic products from regulated Japanese prefectures were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During inspections of the consignments of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found five packs of chilled scallops manufactured in Chiba Prefecture, and three boxes of chilled sea urchin manufactured or processed in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Friday, September 20, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240920_11156.html)

A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (September 16) that in order to combat inbound persons illegally bringing regulated food such as raw meat, poultry and eggs into Hong Kong, the CFS has continuously stepped up interception and mounted enforcement actions, and deployed quarantine detector dogs to assist law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties at various land boundary control points, all in an effort to safeguard public health. During the CFS's operation over the past week (September 9 to 15), 68 cases concerning inbound persons suspected of illegally bringing regulated food into Hong Kong were found. All these persons were unable to provide health certificates for the relevant food. Three of the cases were detected by quarantine detector dogs, and upon investigation by law enforcement officers, raw meat was found in the personal baggage of the two inbound persons, one of whom had vacuum-packed raw meat, while raw eggs were found in the personal baggage of the remaining inbound person. Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be instituted against the persons involved. The investigations are ongoing. The CFS will continue to maintain close liaison and exchange of intelligence with other enforcement departments, including Hong Kong Customs, and step up enforcement operations at various boundary control points. As of yesterday, the CFS has instituted over 1 400 prosecutions against inbound persons for illegally bringing regulated food into Hong Kong this year, nearly double the number from the same period last year. Under the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60), each consignment of imported meat and poultry is required to apply for an import licence from the FEHD. In addition, pursuant to the Imported Game, Meat, Poultry and Eggs Regulations (Cap. 132AK), each consignment of imported game, meat, poultry and eggs must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by the issuing entity of the place of origin and/or import permission of the FEHD. Offenders are liable on conviction to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment. The CFS reminds members of the public not to defy the law by importing regulated food without a recognised health certificate, written permission from the FEHD or an import licence. In addition, the CFS will continue strengthening publicity and education at various control points and reminding the public through various channels (e.g. websites, posters, leaflets and social media) that they must abide by the relevant Hong Kong laws when purchasing food across the boundary. Ends/Monday, September 16, 2024 A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 16) that in order to combat inbound persons illegally bringing regulated food such as raw meat, poultry and eggs into Hong Kong, the CFS has continuously stepped up interception and mounted enforcement actions, and deployed quarantine detector dogs to assist law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties at various land boundary control points, all in an effort to safeguard public health. Photo shows a quarantine detector dog assisting a law enforcement officer in carrying out his duties at a boundary control point. A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 16) that in order to combat inbound persons illegally bringing regulated food such as raw meat, poultry and eggs into Hong Kong, the CFS has continuously stepped up interception and mounted enforcement actions, and deployed quarantine detector dogs to assist law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties at various land boundary control points, all in an effort to safeguard public health. Photo shows officers of the CFS distributing promotional leaflets at a boundary control point. A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (September 16) that in order to combat inbound persons illegally bringing regulated food such as raw meat, poultry and eggs into Hong Kong, the CFS has continuously stepped up interception and mounted enforcement actions, and deployed quarantine detector dogs to assist law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties at various land boundary control points, all in an effort to safeguard public health. Photo shows officers of the CFS carrying out duties and distributing promotional leaflets at a boundary control point. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240916_11151.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (September 13) announced that a sample of imported prepackaged noodles was detected with sulphur dioxide, a preservative, at a level exceeding the legal limit, and the functional class and name of the additive were also not declared on the food label. In addition, the CFS found that a sample of imported prepackaged pepper sauce contained sulphur dioxide, but the functional class and name of the additive were not declared on the food label. Members of the public should not consume the affected batches of the products. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batches of the products immediately if they possess any of them. Product details are as follows: Product name of noodles: MeeBrand: MY MURNIPlace of origin: MalaysiaNet weight: 450 gramsUse-by date: August 27, 2024Importer: Grace Cup International Trading Company LimitedHotline: 3990 2814 Product name of pepper sauce: PEPPER SAUCEBrand: TABASCOPlace of origin: The United StatesVolume: 150 millilitresBest-before date: August 30, 2028Distributor: Sims Trading Co., Ltd.Hotline: 2262 1559 "The CFS collected the above-mentioned noodle and pepper sauce samples at the import level and from a retail outlet in Wan Chai respectively for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that the noodle sample contained sulphur dioxide at a level of 68 parts per million, exceeding the legal limit of 20 ppm under the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD), and the functional class and name of the additive were also not declared on the food label. As for the other pepper sauce sample, although the level of sulphur dioxide found to be contained in it is below the statutory maximum permitted level, the functional class and the name of the additive were not declared on the food label of the sample," a spokesman for the CFS said. The CFS has informed the vendor, importer and distributor concerned of the irregularities and instructed them to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected batches of the products. The importer and distributor concerned have initiated recalls according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call the respective hotlines during office hours for enquiries about the recalls. The spokesman reminded the food trade that the use of preservatives in food must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD). Furthermore, the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require that for all prepackaged food for sale in Hong Kong containing sulphite in a concentration of 10 ppm or more, the functional class of the sulphite and its name shall be specified in the list of ingredients. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. Sulphur dioxide is a preservative which can be used in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and salted fish products. Sulphur dioxide is water soluble, and most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, susceptible individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience breathing difficulties, headaches and nausea after consumption. The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action. Investigations are ongoing. Ends/Friday, September 13, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240913_11148.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (September 10) announced the results of a seasonal food surveillance project on mooncakes (second phase). The results of 186 samples tested were all satisfactory. In summary, all testing results for mooncakes in this project have met the testing standards. A spokesman for the CFS said that the first-phase test results on mooncakes had been released earlier. In the second-phase surveillance, the CFS continued to collect samples covering traditional, snowy, ice-cream and other types of mooncakes from various retailers (including online retailers) and food factories for chemical and microbiological tests, and nutrition content analysis. Chemical tests covered preservatives, antioxidants and mineral oil. Microbiological tests covered various pathogens and hygiene indicators. For nutrition content analyses (covering the contents of energy, protein, total fat, saturated fatty acids, trans fatty acids, carbohydrates, sodium and sugars), the samples were tested to see if they complied with the food labelling requirements. The spokesman reminded members of the public to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of mooncakes as they are generally high in sugar and fat. Some types of mooncakes also contain relatively high levels of salt. Eating too much fat will increase the risk of being overweight and obese, while dietary sugar intake is a determinant of body weight and dental caries. In addition, excessive sodium intake will increase the risk of developing hypertension, fatal stroke and coronary heart disease. He advised people to refer to nutrition labels of mooncakes, particularly on the sugar, salt and fat contents, to make a healthier choice. People should avoid choosing mooncakes with high levels of fat or sugar, i.e. containing more than 20 grams of total fat or more than 15g of sugar per 100g of food. As for reducing salt intake, people can choose low-sodium mooncakes, i.e. containing no more than 120 milligrams of sodium per 100g of food. The spokesman said that people should consider their health conditions and consume mooncakes in an appropriate amount during the Mid-Autumn Festival. He advised people to share mooncakes with their family members and friends, as this not only enhances the festive atmosphere, but also allows them to taste mooncakes of different flavours and avoid overconsumption. Members of the public should heed the following points in the purchase, storage and consumption of mooncakes to prevent food-borne diseases: ＊Buy mooncakes from reliable outlets rather than patronising unlicensed hawkers. Check whether the mooncakes are properly packaged, pay attention to the expiry dates before purchase and eat them before the expiry dates; ＊Store mooncakes according to the instructions on the package if they are not to be consumed immediately. Keep snowy mooncakes at 4 degrees Celsius or below, and ice-cream mooncakes at minus 18 degrees C or below, and consume them as soon as possible after taking them out from the refrigerator; ＊Use an icebox to carry snowy or ice-cream mooncakes outdoors and consume them as soon as possible; ＊Wrap mooncakes properly and separate them from raw food when storing in a refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination; and ＊Maintain good personal hygiene. Wash hands properly with liquid soap and running water before handling and consuming mooncakes. The spokesman also reminded food traders to adhere to the Good Hygiene Practices. Apart from purchasing food ingredients from reliable suppliers, they should also comply with legal requirements when using food additives. "Snowy and ice-cream mooncakes, which do not undergo a baking process at high temperature, need to be handled hygienically during processing, transportation and storage to avoid contamination and growth of germs," he said. Ends/Tuesday, September 10, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (September 10) announced the test results of the seasonal food surveillance project on mooncakes (second phase). All 186 samples tested have met the testing standards. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240910_11135.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (September 5) announced the results of a seasonal food surveillance project on mooncakes (first phase). The results of the first-phase surveillance showed that all 179 samples tested were satisfactory. The testing of the second-phase surveillance is ongoing. A spokesman for the CFS said that samples covering traditional, snowy, ice-cream and other types of mooncakes had been collected from various retailers (including online retailers) and food factories for chemical and microbiological tests, and nutrition content analysis. The chemical tests covered colouring matters, aflatoxins, preservatives and metallic contaminants. Microbiological tests covered different pathogens and hygiene indicators. For nutrition content analysis, the contents of sodium, sugars and total fat of the samples were tested to see if they were consistent with the declared values on the nutrition labels. The spokesman reminded members of the public to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of mooncakes as they are generally high in sugar and fat. Some types of mooncakes also contain relatively high levels of salt. Eating too much fat will increase the risk of being overweight and obese, while dietary sugar intake is a determinant of body weight and dental decay. In addition, excessive sodium intake will increase the risk of developing hypertension, fatal stroke and coronary heart disease. He advised people to refer to nutrition labels, particularly on the sugar, salt and fat contents, to make a healthier choice. People should avoid choosing mooncakes with high levels of fat or sugar, i.e. containing more than 20 grams of total fat or more than 15g of sugar per 100g of food. As for reducing salt intake, people can choose low-sodium mooncakes, i.e. containing no more than 120 milligrams of sodium per 100g of food. He said that people should consider their health conditions and consume mooncakes in an appropriate amount during the Mid-Autumn Festival. He also advised people to share mooncakes with their family members and friends, as this not only enhances the festive atmosphere, but also allows them to taste mooncakes of different flavours and avoid overconsumption. Members of the public should heed the following points in the purchase, storage and consumption of mooncakes to prevent food-borne diseases: The spokesman also reminded food traders to adhere to the Good Hygiene Practices. Apart from purchasing food ingredients from reliable suppliers, they should also comply with legal requirements when using food additives. "Snowy and ice-cream mooncakes, which do not undergo a baking process at high temperature, need to be handled hygienically during processing, transportation and storage to avoid contamination and growth of germs," he said. The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on mooncakes and the second-phase surveillance is being conducted to ensure food safety. Ends/Thursday, September 5, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (September 5) announced the results of a seasonal food surveillance project on mooncakes (first phase). The results showed that all 179 samples tested were satisfactory. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240905_11125.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (August 30) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 5 700 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for six unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 1 100 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 4 600 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 1 900 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 600 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 700 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 800 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 800 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 900 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The six unsatisfactory samples comprised a swordfish sashimi sample and a crab sample with excessive metallic contaminant; two bottled preserved bean curd samples found with excessive Bacillus cereus; a frozen confection sample detected with coliform bacteria and total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit, and a prepackaged frozen confection sample in breach of food labelling regulations. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, in response to the Japanese Government's discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Friday, August 30, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240830_11122.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 13) that samples of a kind of prepackaged frozen confection imported from Taiwan were detected with total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit. The batch of the product concerned has been marked and sealed, and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the incident. Product details are as follows: Product name: Brown Sugar Boba Frozen Dessert BarBrand: SHAOMEIPlace of origin: TaiwanNet weight: 80 gramsBest-before date: July 26, 2025Importer: Circle K Convenience Stores (HK) Ltd A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected samples of the above-mentioned frozen confection at the import level for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. Test results showed that three samples contained 63 000, 82 000 and 540 000 bacteria per gram respectively, exceeding the legal limit." "The CFS has informed the importer concerned of the irregularities. An investigation revealed that the affected batch of the product is still stored in the importer's warehouse. It has been marked and sealed, and has not entered the market. The CFS will temporarily suspend the permission to import for sale of the product concerned granted earlier to the importer," the spokesman said. Under the Frozen Confections Regulation (Cap. 132AC), frozen confections for sale should not contain more than 50,000 bacteria per gram. The maximum penalty for offenders is a fine of $10,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction. The fact that the total bacterial counts exceeded the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean that consumption would lead to food poisoning. ​The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Ends/Tuesday, August 13, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240813_11102.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 12) that a sample of prepackaged wheat starch was found to contain sulphur dioxide, a preservative which is allowed to be used in certain foods, but the functional class and the name of the additive were not declared on the food label. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Wheat StarchBrand: Lee Cheung WooPlace of origin: AustraliaNet weight: 600 gramsBest-before date: December 21, 2025Sole agent: Shun Fat Ma Kee "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Sha Tin for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained sulphur dioxide. Although the sulphur dioxide level detected is within the legal limit, the functional class and the name of the additive were not declared on the food label of the sample," a spokesman for the CFS said. "The CFS has informed the sole agent concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. The sole agent concerned has initiated a recall according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call its hotline at 3422 3698 during office hours for enquiries about the recall," the spokesman added. Sulphur dioxide is a preservative which can be used in a variety of foods including dried vegetables, dried fruits, pickled vegetables and salted fish products. Sulphur dioxide is water-soluble, and most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, susceptible individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience breathing difficulties, headaches and nausea after consumption. The spokesman reminded the food trade that the use of preservatives in food must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD). Furthermore, the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require that for all prepackaged food for sale in Hong Kong containing sulphite in a concentration of 10 parts per million or more, the functional class of the sulphite and its name shall be specified in the list of ingredients. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Monday, August 12, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240812_11100.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 8) that a sample of prepackaged roasted portobello mushroom and sweet potato vegan box was found to contain a pathogen, Salmonella. The CFS is following up on the case. "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Mong Kok for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed the presence of Salmonella in 25 grams of the sample, exceeding the criterion of the Microbiological Guidelines for Food which states that Salmonella should not be detected in 25g of a ready-to-eat food sample," a spokesman for the CFS said. The CFS has informed the vendor and food factory concerned of the above irregularity and instructed them to stop selling the food item concerned immediately. The CFS has also inspected the food premises and the food factory concerned, provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff, and requested the food factory to review and improve its food production process and carry out a thorough cleaning and disinfection.      According to section 54 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), all food available for sale in Hong Kong, locally produced or imported, should be fit for human consumption. An offender is subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.      "Salmonella infection may cause fever and gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The effects on infants, young children, the elderly and people with a weak immune system could be more severe and may even lead to death," the spokesman said. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, August 8, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240808_11094.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 8) that an aquatic product from a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the consignment of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found three boxes of chilled sea urchin processed in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order.” According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, August 8, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240808_11097.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 1) that aquatic products from a regulated Japanese prefecture were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During inspections of the consignments of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found two packs of chilled scallops and a box of chilled sea urchin processed in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, August 1, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240801_11088.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 31) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 5,400 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for five unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 1,500 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 3,900 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 1,900 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 500 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 500 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 900 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 700 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 900 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The five unsatisfactory samples comprised an oyster sample and a frozen sole sample with excessive metallic contaminant; a prepackaged frozen shrimp sample found to contain nitrofuran metabolite; a bottled preserved bean curd sample found with excessive Bacillus cereus, and a bottled coconut drink sample in breach of food labelling regulations. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, as the Japanese Government has commenced the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage(www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html)the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Wednesday, July 31, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240731_11086.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 26) released the test results of a targeted food surveillance project on the nutrition labelling of prepackaged yoghurts and yoghurt drinks. The results of 40 samples tested were all satisfactory. "The CFS collected samples from different retail outlets for the targeted food surveillance project. Tests were conducted to check if the energy content and specified nutrient content (total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sugars, sodium, protein, carbohydrates, and more) are consistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels," a spokesman for the CFS said. The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require all applicable prepackaged foods to list the ingredients and the content of energy plus seven core nutrients, namely carbohydrates, protein, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium and sugars, and regulate any associated nutrition claims. Nutrition labelling can assist consumers in making informed food choices, encourage food manufacturers to apply sound nutrition principles in the formulation of foods, and regulate misleading or deceptive labels and claims. According to Section 61 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), if any person falsely describes food or misleads as to the nature, substance or quality of the food on a label of the food sold by him or her, he or she shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on other food samples to check if their energy content and specified nutrient content are consistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels, and the results will be released in due course. The spokesman reminded the food trade to comply with the law, and urged members of the public to pay attention to the information on nutrition labels when purchasing food to make informed food choices so as to achieve a balanced diet and stay healthy. Ends/Friday, July 26, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240726_11081.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 18) that an aquatic product from a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the consignment of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found a box of chilled sea urchin manufactured in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, July 18, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240718_11076.html)

​In response to media enquiries, a spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said today (July 18): The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the FEHD collects food samples at retail level for safety testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. While designated samples provided by retail outlets will not be accepted for testing, food samples are taken by staff of the FEHD who purchase the products as customer without revealing their identity to the vendors. If a sample fails to meet the established safety standards, the CFS will take appropriate risk management actions, including issuing press releases to inform the public of the related risks. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of less than 1,000 per gram, it is considered satisfactory; a level of 1,000 to 100,000 is considered borderline but requires further action; a level of more than 100,000 is considered unsatisfactory. ​The CFS collected a sample of the bottled preserved bean curd concerned for testing from a retail outlet in Sai Ying Pun at the end of June. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 130,000 per gram. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of more than 100,000 per gram, it is considered unsatisfactory. The CFS has therefore strengthened relevant surveillance immediately, and purchased in early July a sample of another batch of the same bottled preserved bean curd product from a retail outlet in Jordan for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 10,000 per gram, which is considered borderline but not satisfactory and further action is required. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, the CFS shall collect a follow-up sample of another batch of the product (not designated samples provided by the retail outlet). The CFS staff then purchased a sample of another batch of the bottled preserved bean curd product from the above-mentioned retail outlet in Jordan again in mid-July. The follow-up test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 1,300,000 per gram, which is considered unsatisfactory. The CFS has informed the retailer and manufacturer concerned, and has instructed them to stop sales and to initiate recalls of the affected product immediately, as well as to continue improving the food production process. The investigation is ongoing. ​Furthermore, during an inspection of the food factory concerned by the CFS staff in the afternoon of July 4, it was found that some of the raw materials were improperly stored and the hygiene condition of the packaging area was not up to standard, which increase the risk of food contamination. The CFS staff immediately provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the food factory, and requested them to review and improve the food production process, including proper storage of raw materials, and to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. ​From 2021 to mid-July of 2024, the CFS collected under its routine Food Surveillance Programme more than 140 preserved bean curd samples that cover 26 brands, including 23 preserved bean curd samples produced by the manufacturer concerned, for testing. In addition to the two samples concerned, an excessive amount of Bacillus cereus was also found in a sample of another brand. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples in accordance with the established procedures, including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected products concerned and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The CFS has also announced the test results concerning the unsatisfactory samples and explained to the public the food safety risks involved. Bacillus cereus is a spore-forming bacterium that grows best at 30 degrees Celsius to 37 degrees Celsius but stops growing at below 4 degrees Celsius. It is commonly found in the environment. Unhygienic conditions in food processing and storage may give rise to its growth. Consuming food contaminated with excessive Bacillus cereus or its heat-stable toxins may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. In general, the presence of more than 100,000 cells of Bacillus cereus per gram of food can cause food poisoning. Ends/Thursday, July 18, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240718_11078.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 16) announced that a follow-up sample of bottled preserved bean curd was found to contain an excessive amount of Bacillus cereus. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: (Not available in English)Place of origin: Hong KongNet weight: 255 gramsBest-before date: August 7, 2025Manufacturer: LIU MA KEE LIMITED "The CFS announced earlier that a sample of bottled preserved bean curd collected under its routine Food Surveillance Programme from a retail outlet in Sai Ying Pun was found to contain an excessive amount of Bacillus cereus. When following up on the incident, the CFS further collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Yau Ma Tei on July 9 for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 1 300 000 per gram. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of more than 100 000 per gram, it is considered unsatisfactory," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman stated that despite previous instructions to the manufacturer, the result of the follow-up sample has remained unsatisfactory. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and has instructed the vendor to stop sales and to remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. The manufacturer concerned has initiated a recall of the affected batch of the product according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call the manufacturer's hotline at 2730 2968 during office hours for enquiries about the product recall. Earlier the CFS has also inspected the food factory concerned, provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the food factory, and requested it to review and improve the food production process and carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence. "Bacillus cereus is commonly found in the environment. Unhygienic conditions in food processing and storage may give rise to its growth. Consuming food contaminated with excessive Bacillus cereus or its heat-stable toxins may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhoea," the spokesman said. ​The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, July 16, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240716_11071.html)

The Centre for Food Safety and the Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (July 12) conducted blitz inspections at retail outlets and detected two suspected cases of illegal import and sale of chewing smokeless tobacco products. FEHD officers, upon receiving intelligence, conducted blitz operations at the targeted retail outlets today to combat the illegal import and sale of chewing smokeless tobacco products. During the operations, FEHD officers found two suspected cases of illegal import and sale of chewing smokeless tobacco products and seized all products concerned for further investigation and testing. Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be instituted against the persons involved. The investigation is ongoing. A spokesman for the FEHD said that the department will continue its inspection work to combat the illegal sale of chewing smokeless tobacco products. Moreover, the FEHD will maintain close liaison and exchange of intelligence with other enforcement departments, including Hong Kong Customs, and enhance enforcement actions at various boundary control points to combat the illegal import of smokeless tobacco products. According to the Smokeless Tobacco Products (Prohibition) Regulations (Cap. 132BW), no person shall import, manufacture, sell, possess for sale, offer or expose for sale, consign or deliver any smokeless tobacco product. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. The spokesman said that the department has been closely monitoring and taking enforcement actions to combat activities in breach of the Regulations. Under the Regulations, a smokeless tobacco product refers to any product which consists of tobacco, or primarily of tobacco, intended to be taken orally, and includes chewing tobacco (whether looseleaf, firm plug, moist plug, twist or roll chewing tobacco) and moist snuff, but does not include dry snuff taken by inhalation. All tobacco products are harmful to health. Smokeless tobacco products contain various harmful substances, including carcinogens. The spokesman appealed to persons using chewing tobacco products to quit smoking as soon as possible for their personal health. Members of the public may visit the relevant website (www.livetobaccofree.hk) or call the integrated smoking cessation hotline (1833 183) of the Department of Health for information on smoking cessation. Ends/Friday, July 12, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety and the Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (July 12) conducted blitz inspections at retail outlets, in order to strengthen crackdowns on the illegal sale of chewing smokeless tobacco products. Photo shows FEHD staff inspecting one of the retail outlets. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240712_11064.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 12) that a sample of frozen confection was found to contain coliform bacteria and total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limit. The CFS is following up on the incident.     　A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a restaurant in Repulse Bay for testing when following up on a related food incident. The test result showed that the sample contained 410 coliform bacteria per gram and 160,000 bacteria per gram, exceeding the legal limit." "The CFS has informed the restaurant concerned of the irregularity. The restaurant has already stopped selling and discarded the affected product according to the CFS's advice. The CFS has also provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the restaurant, and requested it to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence," the spokesman said. Under the Frozen Confections Regulation (Cap. 132AC), frozen confection for sale should not contain more than 100 coliform bacteria per gram or more than 50,000 bacteria per gram. The maximum penalty for offenders is a fine of $10,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction. The fact that the coliform count and the total bacterial count exceeded the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean that consumption would lead to food poisoning. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Ends/Friday, July 12, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240712_11066.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 11) that aquatic products from regulated Japanese prefectures were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During inspections of the consignments of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found a pack of chilled tuna processed in Niigata Prefecture and 15 boxes of chilled sea urchin manufactured in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, July 11, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240711_11061.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 4) announced that a sample of bottled preserved bean curd was found to contain an excessive amount of Bacillus cereus. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: (Not available in English)Place of origin: Hong KongNet weight: 255 gramsBest-before date: April 16, 2025 Manufacturer: LIU MA KEE LIMITED "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Sai Ying Pun for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 130 000 per gram. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of more than 100 000 per gram, it is considered unsatisfactory," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman said that the CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and has instructed the vendor to stop sales and to remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. The manufacturer concerned has initiated a recall of the affected batch of the product according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call the manufacturer's hotline at 2730 2968 during office hours for enquiries about the product recall. The CFS has also inspected the food factory concerned, provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff of the food factory, and requested it to review and improve the food production process and carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection. In addition, the sample did not indicate the best-before date according to the requirements stipulated in the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W). Prosecution will be instituted against the persons concerned should there be sufficient evidence. "Bacillus cereus is commonly found in the environment. Unhygienic conditions in food processing and storage may give rise to its growth. Consuming food contaminated with excessive Bacillus cereus or its heat-stable toxins may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhoea," the spokesman said. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, July 4, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240704_11059.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 2) announced that a sample of imported swordfish sashimi was detected with methylmercury, a metallic contaminant, at a level exceeding the legal limit. Members of the public should not consume the affected product. The CFS is following up on the incident. "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop, named Oi-Shi-Sushi, for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained methylmercury at a level of 1.4 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the legal limit of 0.5 ppm," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman said that the CFS had informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected product. The CFS is also tracing the source and distribution of the product concerned. "Methylmercury is the major form of mercury in fish. At high levels, mercury can affect foetal brain development, and affect vision, hearing, muscle co-ordination and memory in adults. Furthermore, as some international organisations such as the World Health Organization have pointed out, consuming predatory fish species is the main source of mercury intake for human beings. The report of the CFS's Total Diet Study has also pointed out that large fish or predatory fish species may contain high mercury levels (for example, tuna, alfonsino, shark, swordfish, marlin, orange roughy and king mackerel). Hence, groups particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of mercury, such as pregnant women, women planning a pregnancy and young children should opt for fish that are smaller in size for consumption and avoid consumption of the above-mentioned types of fish to minimise excessive exposure to metal contaminants in food," the spokesman added. According to the Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations (Cap. 132V), any person who sells food with metallic contamination above the legal limit is liable upon conviction to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. ​The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. Investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, July 2, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240702_11056.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (June 28) released the findings of its food safety report for last month. The results of about 5,500 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for 22 unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.6 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 1,300 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 4,200 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 1,700 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 500 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 600 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 800 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 800 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 1,100 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The 22 unsatisfactory samples comprised a canned cherry apple in syrup sample; a prepackaged dried porcini sample; a prepackaged dried lily sample; two crab samples and an escolar sample with excessive metallic contaminant; three canned pasta sauce samples found with a pesticide, ethylene oxide; a papaya sample detected with a pesticide residue at levels exceeding the legal limit; three fresh meat samples found to contain sulphur dioxide; two prepackaged oyster sauce samples detected with a preservative exceeding the legal limit; a flat rice noodle sample detected with sulphur dioxide at a level exceeding the legal limit; a sausage sample found to contain sodium nitrite; two fish samples found with malachite green; a prepackaged frozen confection sample detected with coliform bacteria exceeding the legal limit; a prepackaged chilled duck wings sample suspected to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes; and a bottled malt vinegar sample in breach of food labelling regulations. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, as the Japanese Government has commenced the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Ends/Friday, June 28, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240628_11049.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (June 28) urged the public not to consume two kinds of biscuits imported from Japan as the products might be contaminated with animal faeces. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected products immediately if they possess them. Product details are as follows: Product name: Manna BOLO Brand: MorinagaPlace of origin: JapanBarcode: 4902888973154 Net weight: 36 gramsBest-before date: June 26, 2025Importer: JFC Hong Kong Limited Product name: Manna BOLO Brand: MorinagaPlace of origin: JapanBarcode: 4902888973161Net weight: 31 gramsBest-before date: June 27, 2025Importer: JFC Hong Kong Limited A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS received a notification from the importer of the products concerned that the above-mentioned products are being recalled as they might be contaminated with animal faeces. Upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately contacted the importer concerned for follow-up. According to the information it provided, the importer concerned has already stopped sales and removed from shelves the affected products, and voluntarily initiated recalls. Members of the public may call the importer's hotline at 2487 3453 during office hours for enquiries about the recalls." The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, continue to follow up and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Friday, June 28, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240628_11051.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on food safety co-operation today (June 27), with a view to enhancing the exchange of information on food safety assessment work in Mainland China and the HKSAR, especially the work on food consumption surveys and total diet studies. The MOU was signed by the Controller of the CFS, Dr Christine Wong, and the Deputy Director General of the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Mr Wang Yongting. The MOU seeks to deepen the exchanges and co-operation between the Mainland and Hong Kong on food safety and to promote the technical level of food safety risk assessment through joint efforts. Specifically, the MOU covers exchanges on food safety risk assessment and enhancement of co-operation between the Mainland and Hong Kong to jointly launch food safety risk assessment work. A spokesman for the CFS said, "Under the framework of the MOU, the Mainland and Hong Kong will carry out food safety risk exchanges and co-operation, including work exchanges on total diet study and academic exchanges. According to operational needs, the two signatories will facilitate the arrangements on mutual visits and exchanges by food safety experts and academics, staff training and work experience sharing between the Mainland and Hong Kong." Ends/Thursday, June 27, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment signed a Memorandum of Understanding on food safety co-operation today (June 27), with a view to enhancing the exchange of information on food safety assessment work in Mainland China and the HKSAR, especially the work on food consumption surveys and total diet studies. Picture shows the Controller of the CFS, Dr Christine Wong (front row, left); the Deputy Director General of the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Mr Wang Yongting (front row, right); the Principal Medical Officer (Risk Assessment & Communication) of the CFS, Dr Tony Chow (back row, fourth left); and the Deputy Director General of the China National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Mr Fan Yongxiang (back row, fifth left), at the signing ceremony. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240627_11046.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (June 26) that aquatic products from a regulated Japanese prefecture were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During inspections of the consignments of food concerned imported from Japan, the CFS found in two consignments a total of 10 packs of chilled scallops manufactured in Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Wednesday, June 26, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240626_11044.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (June 24) announced that a kind of imported bottled coconut drink was found to contain milk, an allergen, but it was not declared on the product's food label. The CFS advised consumers who are allergic to milk not to consume the batch of product concerned. Those who feel unwell after consuming it should seek medical treatment. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of product concerned immediately. Product details are as follows: Product name: Fresh Coconut JuiceBrand: 鐵尺本館 (English brand name not available)Place of origin: ChinaVolume: 450 mlBest-before date: May 9, 2025Sole agent: KitKat (Hong Kong) Company Limited "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Tsuen Wan for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained milk, an allergen, but it was not declared on the product's food label," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman said that the CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. According to the CFS's instructions, the sole agent has initiated a recall on the affected batch of the product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 2478 0819 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned. "People who are allergic to milk may have an immunologic response like vomiting, diarrhoea and rash upon consumption of food containing this allergen. In severe cases, anaphylactic shock may even develop. As for other members of the public, generally speaking, they would not be subject to such reactions when the food in question is consumed," the spokesman added. The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require that all prepackaged food for sale in Hong Kong should list out the food ingredients in its list of ingredients. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment. The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Monday, June 24, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240624_11042.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (June 21) that the CFS conducted a blitz operation against irregularities in the labelling of prepackaged food products on June 19. During the operation, CFS officers found that prepackaged food products not in compliance with food labelling laws in Hong Kong were sold at a collection point of an online platform, which was suspected of contravening the requirements under the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) (the Regulations). Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be instituted against the vendor concerned. The investigation is ongoing. A spokesman for the CFS said that it will continue to monitor and ensure compliance of relevant food safety and labelling laws of prepackaged food products for sale in Hong Kong, including food products sold by online platforms. According to the Regulations, unless exempted in Schedule four and six of the Regulations or otherwise stated, prepackaged food shall be marked and labelled in the manner prescribed in the Regulations. Any person who advertises for sale, sells or manufactures for sale any prepackaged food which is not marked or labelled in compliance with the Regulations commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction. The spokesman reminded members of the public to patronise licensed food premises and online shops with appropriate permits when purchasing restricted food, and pay attention to the potential food safety risks when purchasing food online. The CFS has also published advice for food businesses and consumers on online grocery shopping and delivery, which is accessible at the CFS website (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/food_leg/guidelines/Online_Grocery_Trade_e.pdf). Ends/Friday, June 21, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240621_11035.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (June 11) announced that a sample of bottled preserved bean curd was found to contain an excessive amount of Bacillus cereus. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: PRESERVED BEANCURDBrand: YUET WOPlace of origin: ChinaNet weight: 12 ouncesBest-before date: May 30, 2025Distributor: Yuet Wo Sauce And Preserved Fruits Limited "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Tsuen Wan for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 130,000 per gram. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of more than 100,000 per gram, it is considered unsatisfactory," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman said that the CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and has instructed the vendor to stop sales and to remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. The distributor concerned has initiated a recall of the affected batch of the product according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call the distributor's hotline at 2492 3354 during office hours for enquiries about the product recall. "Bacillus cereus is commonly found in the environment. Unhygienic conditions in food processing and storage may give rise to its growth. Consuming food contaminated with excessive Bacillus cereus or its heat-stable toxins may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhoea," the spokesman said. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, June 11, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240611_11020.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (May 31) that a sample of prepackaged frozen confection was found to contain coliform bacteria exceeding the legal limit. The affected batch of product has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the incident. Product details are as follows: Product name: Earl Grey Tea Handmade GelatoBrand: tea-ed TEAPlace of origin: Hong KongNet volume: 125 mlBest-before date: May 31, 2025Manufacturer: Tea-ed Limited A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a frozen confection factory in Chai Wan for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained 200 coliform bacteria per gram, exceeding the legal limit." "The CFS has informed the manufacturer concerned of the irregularity. The affected batch of product has not entered the market. The CFS has provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff concerned, and will request them to carry out thorough cleaning and disinfection," the spokesman said. Under the Frozen Confections Regulation (Cap. 132AC), frozen confection for sale should not contain more than 100 coliform bacteria per gram. The maximum penalty for offenders is a fine of $10,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction. The fact that the coliform count exceeded the legal limit indicated that the hygienic conditions were unsatisfactory, but did not mean that consumption would lead to food poisoning. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Ends/Friday, May 31, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240531_11003.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (May 27) announced that the test results of 46 rice dumpling samples collected under a recently completed seasonal food surveillance project on rice dumplings (first phase) were all satisfactory. Rice dumplings are a popular festive food for the Tuen Ng Festival. The project aims to provide information on safe consumption of rice dumplings to consumers and the trade in a timely manner. "The CFS collected samples of rice dumplings from different retail outlets (including online retailers) and food premises (including restaurants and food factories) for chemical and microbiological analyses. The chemical analyses included tests for colouring matters, preservatives, metallic contamination and pesticide residues. The microbiological analyses covered Salmonella, coagulase-positive staphylococci organisms, Clostridium perfringens and Bacillus cereus," a spokesman for the CFS said. The spokesman reminded members of the public to observe the following food safety tips in purchasing, preparing, storing and consuming rice dumplings: Buying rice dumplings-------------------------* Buy rice dumplings from reliable outlets;* When purchasing non-prepackaged rice dumplings, choose those that are securely wrapped in wrapping leaves; and* When purchasing prepackaged rice dumplings, check the expiry date and whether the packaging is intact. Home-made rice dumplings-------------------------------* Buy wrapping leaves from reliable suppliers and avoid leaves that are unnaturally bright green or with chemical odours;* Wash hands and utensils thoroughly before and after handling food; and* Handle raw and cooked food separately to avoid cross-contamination. Storing and preparing rice dumplings------------------------------------------* Consume rice dumplings as soon as possible and avoid prolonged storage;* Both the glutinous rice and stuffing should be well covered until the rice dumplings are unwrapped. Do not come into direct contact with the strings upon cooking to prevent contamination at all times.* Store rice dumplings at 4 degrees Celsius or below, or store them properly according to the instructions on the package if they are not consumed or cooked immediately;* Keep cooked rice dumplings that are not consumed immediately in a covered container and put them in the upper compartment of the refrigerator. Keep raw food in the lower compartment to prevent cross-contamination;* Reheat rice dumplings thoroughly until the core temperature reaches 75 degrees C or above before consumption;* Do not reheat rice dumplings more than once; and* Consume reheated rice dumplings as soon as possible. Consuming rice dumplings------------------------------* Wash hands with running water and liquid soap, and rub for at least 20 seconds before consumption; and* Reduce seasonings such as soy sauce or granulated sugar during consumption. The spokesman said, "Rice dumplings in general are relatively high in energy, fat and salt. During the festival, people should maintain a balanced diet, and consume rice dumplings moderately, with due consideration of their health condition. People are recommended to share rice dumplings with their family members and friends, as this not only enhances the festive atmosphere, but also allows them to taste rice dumplings of different flavours and avoid over-consumption. People are also advised to make use of nutrition labels on prepackaged food to compare their nutritional contents for healthier food choices." The spokesman also reminded the food trade to purchase food ingredients from reliable suppliers and maintain proper records to facilitate source tracing when necessary. They should follow Good Manufacturing Practice in the preparation of food products and comply with legal requirements when using food additives. The spokesman advised the food trade to adopt the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point System to identify, assess and control possible hazards in the food production process. The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on rice dumplings in the second phase, the results of which will be released in due course to ensure food safety. Ends/Monday, May 27, 2024 The Centre for Food Safety of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (May 27) announced that the test results of 46 samples collected under the seasonal food surveillance project on rice dumplings (first phase) were all satisfactory. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240527_10990.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (May 22) announced that an imported crab sample from the Philippines was detected with cadmium, a metallic contaminant, at a level exceeding the legal limit. The CFS is following up on the incident. "Subsequent to an earlier announcement that a crab sample collected at the import level under its routine Food Surveillance Programme was detected with excessive cadmium, when following up on the case, the CFS further collected the above-mentioned crab sample at the import level for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained cadmium at a level of 5 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the legal limit of 2 ppm," the spokesman said. "Long-term excessive intake of cadmium may affect the kidney functions. The CFS has informed the importer concerned of the irregularity and is also tracing the source of the product concerned. The affected product has not entered the market. Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be instituted," the spokesman added. According to the Food Adulteration (Metallic Contamination) Regulations (Cap. 132V), any person who sells food with metallic contamination above the legal limit is liable upon conviction to a fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months. The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Wednesday, May 22, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240522_10985.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (May 20) announced that malachite green was found in a small snakehead fish sample and a snakehead fish sample. The CFS is following up on the incidents. A CFS spokesman said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned small snakehead sample and snakehead sample from a stall at the Cheung Sha Wan Wholesale Food Market for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test results showed that both samples contained malachite green at levels of 3.2 parts per billion (ppb) and 2.3 ppb respectively." The spokesman said that the CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularities and instructed the vendor to stop sales of the affected products. The CFS is also tracing the sources and distribution of the products concerned. Malachite green is a type of industrial dye and has been used for treating infections in fish. Currently, malachite green has been prohibited for use in food-producing animals in many countries. According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap. 132AF), no food sold in Hong Kong is allowed to contain malachite green. Offenders will be prosecuted and liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action. Investigations are ongoing. Ends/Monday, May 20, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240520_10979.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (April 11) that vegetables and aquatic products from regulated Japanese prefectures were suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected food imported from Japan. The products concerned have been marked and sealed by the CFS and have not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the cases. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During inspections of the concerned consignments of food imported from Japan, the CFS found a pack of fresh hosta from Fukushima Prefecture, four boxes of chilled mantis shrimp manufactured in Miyagi Prefecture, and 52 cartons of sweet potatoes from Ibaraki Prefecture which were not accompanied with radiation certificates and exporter certificates after the Order was issued. The importers concerned are thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all vegetables, fruits, milk, milk beverages and dried milk originating from Fukushima are banned from being imported into Hong Kong, while such foods originating from Ibaraki, Tochigi, Chiba and Gunma prefectures are allowed to be imported on the condition that they are accompanied with a radiation certificate and an exporter certificate issued by the Japanese authority certifying that the radiation levels do not exceed the guideline levels and are fit for human consumption. In addition, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incidents and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incidents. Prosecution will be instituted against the importers concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, April 11, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240411_10929.html)

In response to the announcement made by the authority of the United Kingdom (UK) on the recall of individual batches of a kind of ice cream product that might contain metal pieces, the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said today (March 30) that the CFS is contacting local importers and retailers to follow up on the incident. Details of the product concerned are as follows: Product name: Magnum Classic Ice Cream Sticks (3x100ml)Brand: MagnumPlace of origin: UKVolume: 100ml eachBest before date: November 2025Batch number: L3324, L3325, L3326, L3327 and L3328 A spokesman for the CFS said, "According to the record of the CFS, no import permission was issued in the past three years for the product concerned and the specific batches being recalled in the UK, despite other products of the brand concerned are available for sale in the market. Preliminary investigation of the CFS revealed that no specific batches of the product concerned are sold in Hong Kong. If the product concerned is found to have been imported into or sold in Hong Kong, the CFS will take appropriate action including requesting to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected product and to initiate a recall." The spokesman urged members of the public not to consume the affected batches of the product if they have purchased any overseas. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Saturday, March 30, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240330_10912.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 19) that a sample of prepackaged mushroom powder was found to contain a pesticide, ethylene oxide. Members of the public should not consume the affected product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Pure Oyster Mushroom Powder Brand: URBAN MUSHROOM Place of origin: Hong KongNet weight: 65 gramsBest-before date: January 20, 2025Manufacturer: (Not available in English) A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Tsuen Wan for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained a pesticide, ethylene oxide. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected product. According to the CFS's instructions, the manufacturer concerned has initiated a recall on the affected product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 9616 7734 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned." The spokesman continued, "The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified ethylene oxide as a Group 1 carcinogen. According to the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM), a food for human consumption containing pesticide residue may only be sold if consumption of the food is not dangerous or prejudicial to health. An offender is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction." The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, March 19, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240319_10898.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 7) that an aquatic product from a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected a consignment of food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. 　 A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the food label of the concerned consignment of food imported from Japan, the CFS found a box of sea urchin from Miyagi Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." 　 According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, March 7, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240307_10886.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (February 27) urged the public not to consume a kind of imported prepackaged pork jerky product, as the product might contain sudan dyes, a colouring matter which is not permitted in food. The CFS is following up on the case. Product details are as follows: Product name: SPICY PORK JERKY SLICEDBrand: (Not available in English)Place of origin: TaiwanNet weight: 150 gramsBest-before date: August 10, 2024 - February 6, 2025Importer and Agent: SANWORLD (H.K.) DEVELOPMENT LIMITED A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS, through its Food Incident Surveillance System, noted a notification from the Taiwan authority that the above-mentioned product might have used an ingredient which contained sudan dyes. Upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately contacted the retailer for follow-up. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned vendor had sold the affected batch of the product concerned. For the sake of prudence, the above-mentioned vendor has stopped sales and removed from shelves the affected product, and has initiated a recall according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call its hotline at 2323 3028 during office hours for enquiries about the recall. The spokesman said, "Sudan dyes are synthetic chemical dyes for industrial use. Under the Colouring Matter in Food Regulations (Cap. 132H), sudan dyes are not permitted in food. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment." The CFS has alerted the trade and will continue to follow up on the case and take appropriate action. The CFS has also enhanced relevant surveillance and will closely monitor the latest developments in the Taiwan authority's recalls of incriminated food. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, February 27, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240227_10867.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (February 21) instructed the trade to suspend the import of raw oysters produced by Earl Huitres Geay FR 17.452.121 CE in France. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately should they possess it. ​A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS was notified by the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health of two food poisoning cases which involved consumption of raw oysters at two restaurants. The CFS conducted investigations at the restaurants concerned and found that the two restaurants in Tsim Sha Tsui and Sha Tin had sold raw oysters which had been produced by Earl Huitres Geay FR 17.452.121 CE in France. For the sake of prudence, the CFS has immediately instructed the trade to suspend the import into and sale within Hong Kong of all raw oysters produced by Earl Huitres Geay FR 17.452.121 CE in France." ​The CFS has also instructed the supplier and restaurants concerned to stop supplying and selling the affected raw oysters immediately, and is tracing the distribution of the affected product. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately should they possess it. ​The spokesman pointed out that as oysters feed by filtering a large volume of seawater, pathogens can accumulate in them if they are grown in or harvested from contaminated water. Raw or partially cooked oysters are high-risk foods. Susceptible groups, such as pregnant women, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems or liver diseases, should avoid eating raw oysters. ​The CFS will inform the French authorities and will also notify the local trade. It will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Wednesday, February 21, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240221_10858.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (February 9) concluded its enforcement actions on food labelling in 2023. The CFS inspected food labels of about 55,200 prepackaged foods and collected more than 930 prepackaged food samples from different retail outlets for testing if the energy and specified nutrient content (including total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sugars, sodium, protein, carbohydrates, and more) are consistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels. The CFS has instituted 155 prosecutions against breaches of the stipulated requirements of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) and the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W). In addition, the CFS has announced the test results of the unsatisfactory samples and conducted corresponding follow-up actions. Food labels and nutrition labels are the major channels of communication between food manufacturers and consumers. The food trade may use them as a tool to provide information and attract consumers to buy their products, and assist them in making informed and healthier dietary choices. Meanwhile, the labels may encourage food manufacturers to apply sound nutrition principles in the formulation of foods and regulate misleading or deceptive labels and claims. According to the Ordinance and the Regulations, all prepackaged foods for sale in Hong Kong must be marked or labelled as required by the law. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The variations in seasons, processing practices, storage conditions, etc, may result in discrepancies in the nutrient values among the same product of different batches, yet it should be close to the declared values." To ensure the accuracy of food nutrition labels, Hong Kong has set tolerance limits for nutrient declarations with reference to the international standards and regional practices, and has included them in the technical guidance notes for general prepackaged foods as well as infants and young children formulae and foods. The CFS organises technical meetings and symposiums regularly to facilitate traders' compliance. The spokesman reminded the trade to comply with the law, and urged members of the public to pay attention to the information on nutrition labels when purchasing foods to make informed food choices so as to maintain a balanced diet and stay healthy. Ends/Friday, February 9, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240209_10841.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (February 6) released the findings of its food safety report for December 2023. The results of about 6 300 food samples tested were found to be satisfactory except for nine unsatisfactory samples which were announced earlier. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.9 per cent. A CFS spokesman said about 800 food samples were collected for microbiological tests, and about 5 500 samples were taken for chemical and radiation level tests. The microbiological tests covered pathogens and hygiene indicators; the chemical tests included testing for pesticides, preservatives, metallic contaminants, colouring matters, veterinary drug residues and others; and the radiation level tests included testing for radioactive caesium and iodine in samples collected from imported food from different regions. The samples comprised about 2 800 samples of vegetables and fruit and their products; about 300 samples of cereals, grains and their products; about 600 samples of meat and poultry and their products; about 900 samples of milk, milk products and frozen confections; about 700 samples of aquatic and related products; and about 1 000 samples of other food commodities (including beverages, bakery products and snacks). The nine unsatisfactory samples comprised a date sample and a candied lotus seed sample detected with sulphur dioxide at a level exceeding the legal limit; a prepackaged red date sample detected with sulphur dioxide at a level exceeding the legal limit and in breach of the food labelling regulations; a prepackaged date sample and a prepackaged fresh bean curd sticks sample in breach of the food labelling regulations; a fresh pork liver sample detected with a veterinary drug residue at a level exceeding the legal limit; a fresh beef sample found to contain sulphur dioxide; a Chinese green radish sample detected with a pesticide residue at a level exceeding the legal limit; and a prepackaged ice-cream sample not in compliance with the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations. The CFS has taken follow-up actions on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory samples including informing the vendors concerned of the test results, instructing them to stop selling the affected food items and tracing the sources of the food items in question. The spokesman reminded the food trade to ensure that food is fit for human consumption and meets legal requirements. Consumers should patronise reliable shops when buying food and maintain a balanced diet to minimise food risks. Separately, as the Japanese Government has commenced the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station, the CFS will continue enhancing the testing on imported Japanese food, and make reference to the risk assessment results to adjust relevant surveillance work in a timely manner. The CFS will announce every working day on its dedicated webpage (www.cfs.gov.hk/english/programme/programme_rafs/daily_japan_nuclear_incidents.html) the radiological test results of the samples of food imported from Japan, with a view to enabling the trade and members of the public to have a better grasp of the latest safety information. Summary of food surveillance programme for 2023--------------------------------------------------------------- Concluding the food surveillance programme for 2023, the spokesman said that apart from routine food surveillance, the CFS also conducted a number of targeted, seasonal and popular food surveillance projects. "About 65 000 samples were tested by the CFS last year. The overall satisfactory rate was 99.8 per cent, which was comparable to the results in recent years. This indicates that food safety has been maintained at a high standard in Hong Kong," he said. "The exceedances or breaches for most of the unsatisfactory samples were not serious and would not pose adverse health effects to the general public. For individual food items with unsatisfactory test results, the CFS has taken prompt and effective risk management actions to safeguard public health," he said. He added that in planning the food surveillance programme, the CFS will take into consideration a number of factors such as the food consumption level and the risk of the food concerned in deciding on the number of samples to be tested and the frequency of sampling as well as the testing parameters. In addition, the CFS will also suitably adjust its food surveillance programme and strengthen relevant testing with regard to local and overseas food incidents as well as past surveillance data, in particular breaches of regulatory requirements that occurred more frequently, so as to safeguard food safety in Hong Kong. Ends/Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240206_10830.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (February 6) that a sample of prepackaged chili powder imported from Indonesia was found with a pesticide, ethylene oxide. Members of the public should not consume the affected batch of the product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Spicy chili sprinkleBrand: BonChiliPlace of origin: IndonesiaNet weight: 40 gramsSole Distributor: Chi Shing (Golden Coconut) Trading Co. Ltd.Best-before date: March 26, 2024 A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from an online shop for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained a pesticide, ethylene oxide. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed them to stop sale and remove from shelves the affected batch of the product. According to the CFS's instructions, the sole distributor concerned has initiated a recall on the affected batch of the product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 2607 3856 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned." The spokesman continued, "The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified ethylene oxide as a Group 1 carcinogen. According to the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM), a food for human consumption containing pesticide residue may only be sold if consumption of the food is not dangerous or prejudicial to health. An offender is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction." The spokesman urged the public not to consume the affected batch of the product if they have bought any. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product concerned immediately if they possess it. The CFS will alert the trade, continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240206_10832.html)

To safeguard food safety and protect public health, the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) and the Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) have enhanced inspections before the Lunar New Year holidays of various licensed food premises across the territory to ensure that oysters to be eaten in a raw state (raw oysters) be stored at the proper temperature. A spokesman for the FEHD said today (February 2), "The FEHD has launched a series of operations since Wednesday (January 31) and stepped up inspections in various districts. No irregularities have been detected so far. Health advice was also given, and food safety pamphlets were distributed to operators and staff of food premises regarding the proper way of storing and handling raw oysters." As stipulated under the permit/licensing conditions of the restricted food permit or written permission issued by the FEHD, all raw oysters ready for immediate consumption shall be kept in a refrigerator or compartment of a refrigerator separated from other food items at a temperature between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius. If a breach of the aforesaid condition is found, FEHD officers will, depending on the actual circumstances, issue verbal warnings or warning letters, and may even consider cancellation of the permits/licences of relevant premises. The spokesman reminded that as oysters feed by filtering a large volume of seawater and absorbing suspended food particles therein, bacteria (e.g. Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus) and viruses (e.g. norovirus and Hepatitis A virus) may accumulate in them if they are grown in or harvested from contaminated water. Consuming oysters without thorough cooking might risk direct intake of these microorganisms. Susceptible groups, such as pregnant women, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems or liver diseases, should avoid eating them. In addition, the CFS held a Food Safety Seminar for Trade in December 2023 and reminded food businesses to follow Good Hygiene Practices when handling and serving oysters. If raw oysters are served, food handlers are urged to take heed of the following: "However, these measures are not all fail-safe," the CFS spokesman added. "Thorough cooking is the most effective way to reduce the risk of foodborne illness."      The CFS has issued new food safety advice that provides the public with information on the food safety risks of raw oysters as well as a set of trade guidelines to assist the food businesses in implementing appropriate food safety measures when serving oysters to be eaten raw. For the sake of food safety, the public, especially susceptible populations, should cook oysters thoroughly before eating. Details of the advice and guidelines are available on the CFS's website (www.cfs.gov.hk/oyster). The FEHD will continue to step up inspections to ensure that the licensing/permit conditions are observed by the licensees/permit holders or relevant operators, and the hygienic standards stipulated in the laws are met. Ends/Friday, February 2, 2024 To safeguard food safety and protect public health, the Centre for Food Safety and the Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) have enhanced inspections before the Lunar New Year holidays to various licensed food premises across the territory to ensure that oysters to be eaten in a raw state (raw oysters) be stored at the proper temperature. Photo shows FEHD officers distributing food safety pamphlets during an operation to staff of food premises regarding the proper way of storing raw oysters. To safeguard food safety and protect public health, the Centre for Food Safety and the Environmental Hygiene Branch of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) have enhanced inspections before the Lunar New Year holidays of various licensed food premises across the territory to ensure that oysters to be eaten in a raw state (raw oysters) be stored at the proper temperature. Photo shows an FEHD officer inspecting the storing temperature of raw oysters. Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240202_10820.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 22) urged the public not to consume a batch of chocolate product imported from Switzerland as the product might contain plastic foreign matter. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected batch of the product immediately if they possess it. Product details are as follows: Product name: Milk Chocolate with Honey and Almond NougatBrand: TOBLERONEPlace of origin: SwitzerlandNet weight: 100 gramsImporter and distributor: Integrated Market Services Asia LimitedBest-before date: December 1, 2024Batch number: OOY4233553 A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS received a notification from the manufacturer's Hong Kong representative of the product concerned that the above-mentioned batch of the product is being recalled as it might contain plastic foreign matter. Upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately contacted the importer and distributor concerned for follow-up. According to the information it provided, the importer and distributor concerned has already stopped sale and removed from shelves the affected batch of the product, and voluntarily initiated a recall. Members of the public may call the importer and distributor's hotline at 2848 0808 during office hours for enquiries about the recall." The spokesman urged members of the public not to consume the affected batch of the product if they have bought any. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, continue to follow up and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Monday, January 22, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240122_10802.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 18) that an aquatic product manufactured in a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected a consignment of food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the food label of the concerned consignment of food imported from Japan, the CFS found two packs of powdered bonito suspected to have been manufactured in Niigata Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, January 18, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240118_10795.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 18) that an aquatic product manufactured in a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected a consignment of food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the food label of the concerned consignment of food imported from Japan, the CFS found two packs of powdered bonito suspected to have been manufactured in Niigata Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, January 18, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240118_10795.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 17) urged the public not to consume several kinds of imported cereal products, as the products might have been contaminated with Salmonella, a pathogen. The trade should stop using or selling the products concerned immediately if they possess them. Product details are as follows: Product names: (1) QUAKER OATMEAL SQUARES HONEY NUT (2) QUAKER OATMEAL SQUARES CINNAMON (3) QUAKER OATMEAL SQUARES ORIGINAL Brand: QUAKER Pack size: 14.5 ounces Place of origin: United States (US) Best-before dates: January 11 to October 1, 2024 Importer: PepsiCo Beverages (HK) Ltd A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS, through its Food Incident Surveillance System, noted a notification from the Food and Drug Administration of the US that the above-mentioned products might have been contaminated by Salmonella. Upon learning of the incident, the CFS immediately contacted local importers for follow-up. A preliminary investigation found that the above-mentioned importer had imported into Hong Kong the affected products concerned." The importer concerned has stopped sales, removed from shelves the affected products and has initiated a recall according to the CFS's instructions. Members of the public may call the hotline of the importer at 2236 5480 during office hours for enquiries about the recall. "Salmonella infection may cause fever and gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The effects on infants, young children, the elderly and persons with a weak immune system could be more severe and may even lead to death," the spokesman said. The spokesman urged consumers not to consume the affected products if they have bought any. The trade should also stop using or selling the products concerned immediately if they possess them. The CFS will alert the trade to the incident, and will continue to follow up and take appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240117_10792.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 16) announced the test results of a recently completed seasonal food surveillance project on Lunar New Year (LNY) food (first phase). The test results of around 420 samples collected were satisfactory except for one sample that was announced earlier. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The LNY is coming soon and the CFS is conducting this seasonal food surveillance project in two phases. During the first phase of the project, different types of LNY food including steamed puddings (e.g. turnip puddings and festive cakes), fried dumplings (e.g. sesame balls and crispy triangles), candies, glutinous rice balls, nuts, melon seeds and dried aquatic products were collected from different retailers (including online retailers) for chemical and microbiological tests as well as nutrition content analysis." Chemical tests targeted preservatives, metallic contaminants, sweeteners and others. Microbiological tests covered different food poisoning pathogens. For nutrition content analysis, the contents of total fat, sodium and sugars of the samples were tested to see if the test results were consistent with the declared values on the nutrition labels. The unsatisfactory food sample was a prepackaged fresh bean curd sticks sample in breach of the food labelling regulation. The CFS has taken follow-up action on the above-mentioned unsatisfactory sample including informing the vendor concerned of the test result, instructing them to stop selling the affected food item and mounting a recall, and tracing the source of the food item in question. The spokesman urged the food trade to observe the relevant laws and regulations in the preparation of food, follow Good Manufacturing Practice and use permitted food additives only in an appropriate manner. Retailers should source food from reliable suppliers, and conduct quality checks of incoming materials and end products to ensure that ingredients used are within legal standards. In addition, the food trade should maintain proper records in accordance with the requirements of the Food Safety Ordinance to allow source tracing if needed. The spokesman also advised consumers to buy LNY food from reliable retailers with good hygiene conditions; make sure the packaging of prepackaged cakes and snacks is intact and the products have not expired; refer to the nutrition labels on the sugar, salt (sodium) and fat content and more for making healthy choices; and pay attention to the hygiene conditions of food containers and the personal hygiene of staff when buying loose-packed foods (e.g. candied lotus seeds, nuts and melon seeds). "Consumers should choose food products with natural colours. Bright white pistachios may have been bleached and melon seeds with an unnatural gloss may have had mineral oil added. Consumption of these food products can cause gastrointestinal discomfort," the spokesman said. "Festive cakes that are not for immediate consumption should be kept refrigerated or stored according to the instructions on the package, and should be eaten before they expire. Reheat hot-served festive cakes thoroughly before consumption, consume them as soon as possible, and avoid keeping them at room temperature for a long time. Foods like nuts and melon seeds should not be kept for a long time. Those with mould or an abnormal smell or taste should not be eaten," he added. The spokesman reminded the public to maintain a balanced diet and avoid foods that are high in energy, sugar, salt or fat during the LNY. The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on LNY food and the second-phase results will be released in a timely manner to ensure food safety. Please visit the CFS website (www.cfs.gov.hk/seasonalfood) for more food safety information about seasonal food. Ends/Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240116_10783.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 15) that a sample of salty chicken was found to contain a pathogen, Salmonella. The CFS is following up on the case. "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a booth at an exhibition in Wan Chai for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme, the booth number was Booth 3B15 of Friendship Rainbow Company Limited at the Hong Kong Food Festival. The test result showed the presence of Salmonella in 25 grams of the sample, exceeding the criterion of the Microbiological Guidelines for Food which states that Salmonella should not be detected in 25g of a ready-to-eat food sample," a spokesman for the CFS said. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the above irregularity and instructed it to recall the relevant food product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 5708 1363 during office hours for enquiries about the recall. The CFS is also tracing the source and distribution of the product concerned. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence. For the sake of prudence, the CFS appealed to members of the public who had purchased salty chicken from the above-mentioned booth at the exhibition held from December 23 to 27, 2023 not to consume them. If symptoms develop after consuming the food, they should seek medical advice as soon as possible. According to section 54 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), all food available for sale in Hong Kong, locally produced or imported, should be fit for human consumption. An offender is subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction. "Salmonella infection may cause fever and gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The effects on infants, young children, the elderly and people with a weak immune system could be more severe and may even lead to death," the spokesman said. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. Investigation is ongoing. Ends/Monday, January 15, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240115_10780.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 11) that an aquatic product processed in a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected a consignment of food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the food label of the concerned consignment of food imported from Japan, the CFS found four boxes of frozen scallops suspected to have been processed in Chiba Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, January 11, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240111_10770.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (January 11) that an aquatic product processed in a regulated Japanese prefecture was suspected to be in breach of the relevant Food Safety Order when the CFS inspected a consignment of food imported from Japan. The product concerned has been marked and sealed by the CFS and has not entered the market. The CFS is following up on the case. A spokesman for the CFS said, "During an inspection of the food label of the concerned consignment of food imported from Japan, the CFS found four boxes of frozen scallops suspected to have been processed in Chiba Prefecture after the Order was issued. The importer concerned is thus suspected of breaching the relevant Order." According to the Order, all aquatic products originating from the 10 metropolis/prefectures, namely Tokyo, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Miyagi, Chiba, Gunma, Tochigi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, are prohibited from being imported into and supplied in Hong Kong if they are harvested, manufactured, processed or packed on or after August 24, 2023, including all live, chilled, frozen, dried or otherwise preserved aquatic products, sea salt, and unprocessed or processed seaweed. The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action, including informing the Japanese authorities concerned of the incident. Prosecution will be instituted against the importer concerned should there be sufficient evidence. The investigation is ongoing. Ends/Thursday, January 11, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240111_10770.html)

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 8) instructed the trade to suspend the import of raw oysters harvested in area 50-07 Saint Vaast La Hougue in France. The trade should also stop using or selling the product concerned immediately should they possess it. A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS received notifications from the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed of the European Commission that ready-to-eat raw oysters harvested in area 50-07 Saint Vaast La Hougue in France were detected with norovirus and the area concerned was closed. A preliminary investigation by the CFS found that a local importer, Alliance Gourmet Limited, had imported the affected raw oysters. For the sake of prudence, the CFS has immediately suspended the import into and sale within Hong Kong of raw oysters harvested in the area concerned, and instructed the importer to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected oysters." The spokesman said that preliminary investigation by the CFS found that five kilograms of the affected oysters had been imported by the importer concerned. All were distributed to a restaurant and were consumed. The trade should also stop selling other products from the affected area if they possess them. The spokesman pointed out that as oysters feed by filtering a large volume of seawater, pathogens can accumulate in them if they are grown in or harvested from contaminated water. Raw or partially cooked oysters are high-risk foods. Susceptible groups, such as pregnant women, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems or liver diseases, should avoid eating raw oysters. The CFS will inform the French authorities and will also notify the local trade. It will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. An investigation is ongoing. Ends/Monday, January 8, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240108_10759.html)

A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said today (January 4), to ensure that the live pigs supplied to Hong Kong are not infected by African Swine Fever (ASF), the Government has established mechanism to monitor animal diseases at import level and in slaughterhouses, including the inspection of imported live pigs for consumption. The spokesman for the CFS stressed,"ASF is not a zoonotic disease and will not infect humans, hence does not cause any food safety risk." At present, live pigs supplied to Hong Kong are sourced from registered farms which are under the supervision and monitoring of the Mainland authority. Every consignment of live pigs supplied to Hong Kong must undergo quarantine and inspection before export and be accompanied by an official health certificate and does not have syndrome of ASF. Veterinary Officers of the CFS at Animal Inspection Station will also inspect the health conditions of live pigs. If the registered farm in the Mainland is affected by ASF, the live pigs from the farm cannot be imported to Hong Kong. If there are any pigs suspected to be infected with ASF, samples will be collected and sent to the Veterinary Laboratory of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for testing. All pigs have to undergo stringent ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections in slaughterhouses before supplying to the market. In the past four years, there is no live pigs supplied from the Mainland to Hong Kong was detected ASF. With the implementation of daily clearance arrangement since June 2019, all live pigs admitted to the slaughterhouses will be slaughtered within 24 hours. Lairages at different areas of the slaughterhouses will be cleared and undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection every day to reduce the risk of ASF infection and the virus from being carried from slaughterhouses to local farms. Furthermore, Mainland live pig vehicles and local ones are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected every time they leave the slaughterhouse, and the respective designated positions for their cleaning and disinfection are separated. Disinfection pools have been installed near the entrance gate to facilitate disinfection of wheels for pig-conveying trucks entering and leaving slaughterhouse. The FEHD and the operators of the slaughterhouses have been deployed additional manpower to monitor and ensure the vehicles have been undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection before leaving. The government has been attaching great importance to the impact of ASF to local pig farmers and the pig rearing industry, and have been monitoring the latest developments. The recent cases of ASF in Hong Kong did not affect the operation of local slaughterhouses and hence did not affect the supply of live pigs and the price. Ends/Thursday, January 4, 2024 Source of Information (Centre for Food Safety: https://www.cfs.gov.hk/english/press/20240104_10753.html)