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Guangdong authorities investigate sulfur-fumigated bamboo shoots
Authorities in Guangdong, China, have launched an investigation after videos surfaced showing bamboo shoot processors using sulfur fumigation to whiten the product and extend its shelf life. Local market supervision officials confirmed the reports are true, subsequently seizing the affected products and initiating a trace of their distribution.
Testing revealed sulfur dioxide levels in the bamboo shoots reached 4860 mg/kg, significantly exceeding safe limits. This incident follows recent food safety controversies in China involving the use of formaldehyde on cabbage and food coloring on lettuce.
In response to the news, South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety clarified that no fresh bamboo shoots from China have been imported into the country. However, to prevent potential contamination, the ministry announced it will implement enhanced sulfur dioxide testing for all imported Chinese bamboo shoot processed foods, such as canned goods, during the customs clearance process.
Entities
China · Guangdong · Guangdong Market Supervision Administration · Ministry of Food and Drug Safety · Qingyuan · Qingyuan Market Supervision Administration · South Korea · Yingde · Yule Qi Ge
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Qingyuan Market Supervision Administration confirmed the reports were true and seized the products. www.kyeonggi.com · www.secretchina.com · biz.heraldcorp.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety stated that no fresh bamboo shoots from China have been imported into the country. www.kyeonggi.com · biz.heraldcorp.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Testing of the bamboo shoots showed sulfur dioxide levels of 4860 mg/kg. www.secretchina.com · biz.heraldcorp.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] A blogger reported that bamboo shoots in Guangdong were fumigated with sulfur to appear whiter and extend shelf life. www.kyeonggi.com · www.secretchina.com · biz.heraldcorp.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] South Korea will increase sulfur dioxide testing for all imported Chinese bamboo shoot processed foods. biz.heraldcorp.com