The Department of Health (DH) is today (March 14) investigating Wai Yuen Tong (Health Supplement) Company Limited, at Wang Lee Street, Yuen Long, for suspected illegal possession of an unregistered proprietary Chinese medicine (pCm) called Wai Yuen Tong Herbal Tea.
 
      Acting upon intelligence, the DH conducted a field investigation and seized the above unregistered pCm. According to the product label, the product claimed to expel internal heat and exogenous evil from the body surface and it is suitable for people concerned about cold and flu symptoms. Investigations revealed that the above product had been imported from Malaysia for local sale.
 
     "The use of unregistered pCms may pose threats to public health as their safety, quality and efficacy are not proven. We noted that Wai Yuen Tong (Health Supplement) Company Limited has recalled all the above unregistered pCm from the market and set up a hotline (2727 8911) for related enquiries. We will closely monitor the recall. So far, no related adverse reports have been received," a spokesman for the DH said.
 
     According to section 119 of the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap 549), no person shall sell, import or possess any pCm unless it is registered. The maximum penalty is a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment. The DH will proceed with prosecution matters in accordance with the advice from the Department of Justice.
 
     Members of the public who have purchased the above unregistered pCm should stop taking it immediately. Those who have consumed it and are feeling unwell should seek advice from healthcare professionals. People who have the product can submit it to the DH's Chinese Medicine Division on 16/F, AIA Kowloon Tower, Landmark East, 100 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, during office hours for disposal.

Ends/Thursday, March 14, 2019
Issued at HKT 17:00

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