Taiwan FDA recalls black sesame oil over carcinogen levels

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported that benzo(a)pyrene, a carcinogen, has exceeded safety limits in black sesame oil. Following a self-report by Tong Gou Industrial Co., Ltd., 360 bottles of ‘Ma You Che Cold Pressed Black Sesame Oil’ (with expiration dates in 2028) are being recalled. The retailer Sheng De Kos has suspended sales and is offering refunds to consumers.

To date, a total of 15 oil mills across Taiwan have been identified as having products with excessive benzo(a)pyrene levels, including various camellia oils. The FDA has identified several potential causes for the contamination, such as the use of biomass fuels like dry branches for heating during the drying process, uneven roasting temperatures, and the repeated heating of residue in equipment.

Starting in September, the FDA and local health bureaus will conduct on-site guidance for oil producers, prioritizing those with previous non-compliance records. The agency is also increasing random sampling of various edible oils to ensure public safety.