Taiwan Health Ministry Defends 20% Toxic Oil Removal Standard

Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare (MHW) upheld a policy that oil products containing benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) at concentrations above 20% must be removed from the market. The threshold was set after an expert committee reviewed scientific data and international literature. Deputy Minister Lin Jing‑yi said the ministry accepts full responsibility for the decision, adding that “political criticism does not help food safety.” Minister Shi Chong‑liang emphasized that the 20% standard stems from scientific discussion, while a complete ban at any level is a political decision he will also bear.

The Food and Drug Administration, led by Jiang Zhigang, released the July 4 expert‑meeting record to the public. Following the discovery that Zhonglian Oil Co. had concealed excess BaP levels, the agency, together with the Taichung City health bureau, conducted on‑site investigations and involved prosecutors. The ministry urged manufacturers to promptly address any problematic oil to prevent further incidents.