The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (August 1) announced that a barbecued pork sample was detected with Orange II, a non-permitted colouring matter in food. The CFS is following up on the incident.

     A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a stall at San Hui Market in Tuen Mun for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed that the sample contained Orange II. The CFS has informed the stall concerned of the above-mentioned irregularity and instructed it to stop selling the food product concerned."

     "Orange II, an industrial dye commonly used in wool, leather, paper and cosmetic products, is not permitted to be used in food in Hong Kong," the spokesman added.

     According to the Colouring Matter in Food Regulations (Cap. 132H), no food intended for sale for human consumption shall contain any added colouring matter which is not a permitted colouring matter. Offenders may be liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment upon conviction.

     The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action. An investigation is ongoing.

Ends/Friday, August 1, 2025
Issued at HKT 17:37

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