Zhonglian Oil Toxic Scandal Triggers Taiwan Legislative Probe

Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan Health and Welfare Committee convened a special hearing on the carcinogenic oil produced by Zhonglian Oil Products Co. Lawmakers accused the government of covering up the scandal and demanded that the Food and Drug Administration release the minutes of the expert meeting held on July 4, as well as an apology from the health and economic ministers. The temporary proposal to hold officials accountable was passed.

Health Minister Shi Chong‑liang rejected the cover‑up allegations, stating that all relevant data have been handed to prosecutorial authorities and that the full meeting records will be made public. The expert panel had already decided not to allow the oil to resume production and set a 20 % removal standard based on scientific evidence.