Food Safety Crisis Escalates: Ko Chih-en Proposes 'National Food Safety Alliance' with Four Solutions

Amidst a lingering food safety crisis, Legislator Ko Chih-en has proposed the formation of a 'National Food Safety Alliance.' Ko emphasized that food safety transcends age and political divides, stating the government must prioritize public health. The proposed alliance seeks to unite opposition leaders and candidates across Taiwan to build a robust food safety defense network through local initiatives and regional cooperation.

Ko outlined four key solutions to bolster food safety. Firstly, she urged the government to halt the sale of potentially unsafe products until the truth is fully uncovered and responsibility is assigned. This measure aims to prevent the re-entry of questionable items into school lunch programs and family meals. Secondly, Ko advocated for inter-county collaboration, establishing information sharing and joint inspection systems to prevent the circulation of problematic products across different regions, reducing reliance on a perceived ineffective central management system.

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Food safety issues do not distinguish between age or political parties. The government should not turn a blind eye to the health of its people; this is the most basic bottom line.

Thirdly, Ko stressed the importance of supporting corporate self-regulation, asserting that businesses proactively protecting consumer rights and temporarily suspending sales of dubious products should be recognized. However, she cautioned that this does not absolve the government of its responsibilities. Finally, she called for the central government to implement a 'Safe Mark' certification system. This system would involve self-inspections and third-party testing, with results publicly disclosed, enabling consumers to make informed choices and helping responsible businesses regain market confidence.

Furthermore, Ko urged the central government to expedite amendments to the 'Food Safety and Health Management Act.' These revisions should strengthen source management, improve real-time reporting mechanisms, establish comprehensive food safety information platforms, and publicly disclose product distribution channels and related business lists. Ko also invited the public to join a street demonstration on July 25 to collectively safeguard the health of future generations through public oversight.

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We invite all citizens concerned about food safety to take to the streets on July 25th, using the power of public supervision to protect the health of the next generation together.