Taiwan Recalls Food Products After the Discovery of Chili Powder Tainted with Sudan Red Dye4/25/2024 By Chelle Chin-Erh Lee Taiwan's food safety authorities are scrambling to contain a potential health scare after discovering chili powder imported from China containing Sudan Red, a banned industrial dye. The contaminated chili powder was used in various food products, leading to recalls across the island. Sudan Red I is one of a group of 7 Sudan colorants. It is an industrial red dye, used legally to color a number of non-food products such as shoe and floor polishes, oil, waxes, and solvents. Sudan Red I – IV is prohibited for use as a food colorant in South Africa, Europe, and many other countries around the world. Sudan red dye has been classified as a Group 3 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Although there is currently insufficient researchto confirm its carcinogenicity, it is considered very likely to cause cancer. However, despite all the indications of Sudan Red’s carcinogenicity, some manufacturers and suppliers still illegally include it in their products because of its much lower cost when compared to other legal food colorants. The issue came to light earlier this year when health officials in Yunlin County found chili powder exceeding safe limits for Sudan Red. Authorities traced the source to Bao Hsin Enterprises, a Taiwanese importer, who had reportedly sold the tainted powder to several clients despite potential red flags. "The presence of Sudan Red in food products is concerning," said Dr. Hsueh Jui-yuan, Minister of Health and Welfare. "While the exact health risks at low levels are still being studied, this dye is not permitted for use in food."
Following the discovery, a wave of recalls began. Popular brands like Haidilao hotpot chain and Hsia Wei Hsien spicy shrimp chips were pulled from shelves after it was confirmed their products contained chili powder from the contaminated batch. Local health departments across Taiwan have also issued temporary bans on the use of chili and curry powder in restaurants as a precautionary measure. The Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has launched a full investigation into the incident. This includes looking into Bao Hsin Enterprises' handling of the imported chili powder and potential violations of import regulations. Additionally, the MOHW is re-evaluating its food safety protocols, particularly regarding imported products. "We are strengthening our import monitoring system to identify high-risk products and ensure stricter inspections," said Minister Hsueh. "We are also considering increasing penalties for companies found to be importing or using illegal additives in food products." Consumers in Taiwan are now advised to check the list of recalled products published by the TFDA (Taiwan Food and Drug Administration) and avoid purchasing or consuming them. Unfortunately, ordinary customers cannot really detect illegal dyes in product labels, but they are encouraged to be vigilant and report any concerns about food safety to local health authorities. While the immediate health risks associated with low-level Sudan Red exposure are unclear, the incident highlights the importance of robust food safety measures in Taiwan. The government's response and ongoing investigation aim to restore consumer confidence and prevent similar situations in the future. a
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May 2024
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