Taiwan expands oil recall amid probe into alleged contamination cover-up

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is expanding a precautionary recall of cooking oil after a carcinogenic substance, benzo(a)pyrene, was found to exceed safety limits. The contamination was detected in products from Chun Chih Oil, a major producer.

The move comes amid external questioning of Chun Chih Oil's handling of the issue. Downstream業者 allegedly notified the company of abnormal benzo(a)pyrene levels in April. However, the company did not report this to the FDA until late June, raising concerns about a potential cover-up. Health Minister Shih Chung-liang announced that the FDA and the Taichung City Health Bureau will cooperate with investigators this week to further examine the matter.

To ensure public health, the FDA has expanded the recall to include blended oils and processed products containing 20% or more of the affected soybean oil. This decision was based on scientific assessments, as the problematic products showed benzo(a)pyrene levels up to 8ppm, significantly exceeding the 1ppm safety limit. A total of 291 food businesses are currently affected by this expanded recall.

Experts reviewed preliminary reports and are considering further testing. Chun Chih Oil has been instructed to review its raw material inspection and production processes. The company will not be allowed to resume operations until improvements are verified. The investigation will also focus on clarifying the timeline of notification and any potential concealment of the contamination.

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Health Minister Shih Chung-liang stated that the FDA and the Taichung City Health Bureau will cooperate with investigators this week to further examine the matter.