Taiwan investigates 1,300 tons of carcinogenic oil; Zhonglian Oil production halted

Taiwan's food safety authorities are scrutinizing 1,300 tons of potentially carcinogenic oil that entered the market from Zhonglian Oil, impacting major manufacturers like Tai Shan, Fu Shou, and Fu Mao, and involving at least 300 businesses nationwide. The contamination involves Benzopyrene, a substance exceeding regulatory limits. Zhonglian Oil initially reported no issues in its soybean raw materials or salad oil during self-testing in April. However, downstream testing by Nanqiao Company, a supplier to Fu Shou, detected the contamination on June 11. Zhonglian Oil subsequently conducted its own tests on June 16 and 25, confirming the Benzopyrene levels exceeded standards. The company then voluntarily reported the issue to the Taichung City Food and Drug Administration. In response, Zhonglian Oil has halted its sole production line. The company has submitted an improvement plan to the Taichung City Food and Drug Administration, which includes a review of its production processes, soybean quality, and import origins. Taichung City Health Bureau Director Zeng Zizhan stated that a review meeting with the central Food and Drug Administration and experts is scheduled for next week. A team will also inspect the plant to clarify the situation. Zeng emphasized that there is no set timeline for Zhonglian Oil to resume operations, and any penalties will depend on whether its manufacturing processes meet regulatory requirements. Authorities are investigating the flow of the contaminated oil and cross-referencing product details and batch numbers. While the case involves administrative law concerning food contamination, Zeng noted that any potential criminal charges would be handled by prosecutors, with the health bureau cooperating fully with their investigation.

“

We have received the improvement plan submitted by the company. We are scheduled to convene a special review meeting next week with the central Food and Drug Administration and experts, and will form a team to enter the factory for investigation and clarification.