Carcinogenic Oil Ignites Taichung Mayoral Race Battle; Lawmaker Criticizes Mayor's Office for Failing Inspections, Opponent Counters 'Food Safety is National Security'

A significant food safety scandal has erupted in Taichung after the soybean salad oil produced by Chung Lien Oil was found to contain excessive levels of benzopyrene, a first-class carcinogen. Legislator He Hsin-chun, a candidate for Taichung mayor from the Democratic Progressive Party, has sharply criticized the city government under Mayor Lu Shiow-yen.

He Hsin-chun pointed out that during Lu Shiow-yen's eight years in office, the Taichung city government has only conducted one inspection of Chung Lien Oil's products. She questioned her opponent, Legislative Yuan Vice President Chiang Chi-chen, on how he could accept such infrequent and inadequate source inspections by the city government.

In response, Chiang Chi-chen stated that food safety is equivalent to national security. He urged the ruling party to demonstrate leadership and address public concerns. He called for a strict approach to carcinogenic cooking oil, identifying the root causes of the problem. He also emphasized the importance of respecting citizens' right to express their opinions and secure their health, suggesting that public anger should drive reforms in the food safety system to continuously reduce risks in Taiwan.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in the mayoral race, with food safety emerging as a key battleground. He Hsin-chun's criticism targets the perceived laxity of the current administration's oversight, while Chiang Chi-chen's response aims to project an image of strong leadership and commitment to public health.

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Food safety is national security.