Sulphur dioxide found in two fresh pork samples by CFS

A spokesman for the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (August 8) said that two samples of fresh pork were detected with sulphur dioxide, a preservative which is not permitted to be used in fresh meat. Prosecution will be taken against the vendors concerned.

"Following up two food complaints, the CFS took the fresh pork samples from a stall at Fa Yuen Street Market in Mong Kok and a fresh provision shop at Reclamation Street in Yau Ma Tei for testing and the samples were found to contain sulphur dioxide at a level of 60 parts per million (ppm) and 290 ppm respectively. The CFS has issued warning to the vendors and prosecution action will be taken. The CFS will also take follow-up samples from the vendors concerned for testing to ensure compliance with relevant statutory provisions," the spokesman said.

"Sulphur dioxide is a commonly used preservative in a variety of foods including dried fruits, pickled vegetables and meat products such as sausages and grilled burgers, but under the Preservatives in Food Regulation (subsidiary legislation of Cap 132), it is not permitted in fresh or chilled meat. Nonetheless, individual meat traders have been found illegally using sulphur dioxide to make meat look fresher. This preservative is of low toxicity. As it is water-soluble, most of it can be removed through washing and cooking. However, susceptible individuals who are allergic to this preservative may experience breathing difficulty, headache and nausea," he added.

The spokesman reminded the food trade to comply with the law and not to sell fresh or chilled meat adulterated with sulphur dioxide. Selling such meat is an offence which carries a maximum penalty of a $50,000 fine and six months' imprisonment. Upon conviction, the FEHD will also suspend or cancel the fresh provision shop licence concerned under the Demerit Points System. For offences related to public market stalls, the tenancy will be terminated in accordance with the current mechanism.

The spokesman advised members of the public to purchase meat from reliable market stalls or fresh provision shops. 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.

Ends/Friday, August 8, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:13