Taiwan Recalls Over 17 Tons of Contaminated Oil with Carcinogen

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported the recovery of over 17 metric tons of cooking oil contaminated with the carcinogen Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP). The contamination was detected in raw materials supplied by Chung Hsin Oil, affecting a total of 18 different products.

FDA Director-General Chiang Yu-ling stated that as of noon on the reporting day, 6 of the 18 affected product categories had been fully accounted for, with 17.422 metric tons collected. The agency is continuing to monitor local health bureaus to ensure the complete removal of these non-compliant products from the market.

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As of today at 12:00 PM, a total of 18 affected oil products have been identified, with 6 categories currently tallied, accumulating a recovery of 17.422 metric tons.

The affected soybean salad oil, specifically batch number 315-1150404, was found to exceed the regulatory limit for BaP, which is set at 2.0 micrograms per kilogram. The FDA has mandated the recall of this specific batch and any products derived from it. Failure to comply within the specified timeframe could result in fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$3 million under the "Food Safety and Sanitation Act."

Regarding concerns about extending the recall to all foods made with the contaminated oil, Chiang explained that Taiwan's food safety regulations include multiple layers of inspection. These involve regular self-inspection by manufacturers, external testing at least every six months, and post-market surveillance. Based on risk assessments, products where the contaminant occurs naturally or is managed under regulations may not require a full recall. The FDA is reviewing its oversight systems, including potentially increasing the frequency of self-inspections and improving source management, to prevent future occurrences.

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If the deadline is not met, fines of NT$30,000 to NT$3 million will be imposed according to the 'Food Safety and Sanitation Act' Article 7 and Article 47.