Taipei finds pesticide residue in barley, green beans; products removed from sale

Taipei City's Department of Health has identified pesticide residues above permitted levels in three batches of grains and beans sampled in April. One batch of barley and two batches of green beans failed to meet the Ministry of Health and Welfare's "Pesticide Residue Permissible Amount Standards."

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Pesticide residues exceeding the permissible amount standards.

Authorities have ordered the immediate removal of these non-compliant products from all points of sale. Investigations into the origin of the contaminated barley and beans are underway, with cases being transferred to the health departments of the relevant out-of-city jurisdictions for further action.

Violations of the pesticide residue standards fall under the Food Safety and Sanitation Act, potentially leading to fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$200 million for responsible businesses. The department stressed the importance of source control for food safety, urging importers to implement monitoring plans and conduct regular self-testing. Downstream businesses are also reminded to maintain records for product traceability.

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Food safety starts with source control.

Consumers are advised to choose products from reputable vendors or those bearing agricultural agency certifications. To reduce pesticide exposure, the department recommends washing grains and beans under running water, soaking them for 10-20 minutes, and rinsing them again with running water multiple times before cooking.

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Wash grains and beans thoroughly before consumption.