Contaminated Camellia Oil Found in Taiwan; Factory Searched

Taiwanese authorities are investigating eight batches of camellia oil found to contain unsafe levels of benzo(a)pyrene, a known carcinogen. The contamination was detected in products from various brands, including Yongfengyu and International Functional Foods, with all problematic batches tracing back to the Yuanchun Oil Press Factory in Chiayi County.

Prosecutors from the Chiayi District Prosecutor's Office, in collaboration with the Taipei District Prosecutor's Office, conducted searches at 17 locations. These included the Yuanchun Oil Press Factory, Weichang Company, and the Meishan Tea Oil Production Cooperative, as well as the residences and offices of individuals involved. Seven people have been summoned for questioning as the investigation unfolds.

Yuanchun Oil Press Factory claims that some of its raw materials originated from Weichang Company. Weichang is suspected of importing camellia seeds from mainland China and misrepresenting their origin. This alleged adulteration is a key focus of the ongoing investigation into the food safety breach.

The Chiayi District Prosecutor's Office emphasized the importance of this case for public health and consumer rights, vowing to rigorously investigate food safety crimes and protect citizens' well-being. The Chiayi County Department of Health has ordered a precautionary recall of all camellia oil products from the Yuanchun Oil Press Factory.