Taiwan bitter tea oil contamination sparks food safety probe

Multiple batches of bitter tea oil produced by the source spring oil factory in Chiayi County were found to contain benzopyrene (BaP) well above Taiwan’s 2 ppb limit. The contamination, linked to imported bitter‑tea seeds—likely from China—has affected several brands, prompting Chiayi County mayor‑candidate Wu Pin‑Rui to demand a comprehensive, transparent investigation of raw‑material sources, processing lines and related subcontractors.

Separately, Taiwan Sugar (台糖) discovered BaP in raw oil from Zhonglian Oil in May but did not notify the Kaohsiung municipal government, drawing criticism from Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi‑Mai, who called for cooperation rather than political bickering. Health and Welfare Minister Shih Tsung‑Liang confirmed that 95 % of bitter‑tea seeds are imported and ordered the suspension of the source spring factory while the Food and Drug Administration launches a risk‑based inspection programme. Local officials and central agencies have held meetings, with Zhonglian’s manager attending, and a decision was made to allow up to 20 % contaminated oil to remain on the market without delisting, a move that has been publicly challenged.