CFS finds excessive Bacillus cereus in cake sample
**************************************************
"The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a restaurant in Kowloon City for testing when following up on a related incident. The test result showed that the sample contained Bacillus cereus at a level of 13 million per gram. According to the Microbiological Guidelines for Food, if ready-to-eat food contains Bacillus cereus at a level of more than 100 000 per gram, it is considered unsatisfactory," a CFS spokesman said.
The CFS has informed the restaurant concerned of the above irregularity and instructed it to suspend the sale of the food product concerned. The CFS has also inspected the food premises, provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff, and requested them to review and improve the food production process and carry out a thorough cleaning and disinfection. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence.
"Bacillus cereus is commonly found in the environment. Unhygienic conditions in food processing and storage may give rise to its growth. Consuming food contaminated with excessive Bacillus cereus or its heat-stable toxins may cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhoea," the spokesman said.
According to section 54 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), all food available for sale in Hong Kong, locally produced or imported, should be fit for human consumption. An offender is subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.
The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health.
Ends/Friday, May 12, 2023
Issued at HKT 17:15
Issued at HKT 17:15
NNNN