CFS finds ethylene oxide in sample of prepackaged mushroom powder

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (March 19) that a sample of prepackaged mushroom powder was found to contain a pesticide, ethylene oxide. Members of the public should not consume the affected product. The trade should also stop using or selling the affected product immediately if they possess it.

Product details are as follows:

Product name: Pure Oyster Mushroom Powder
Brand: URBAN MUSHROOM
Place of origin: Hong Kong
Net weight: 65 grams
Best-before date: January 20, 2025
Manufacturer: (Not available in English)

A spokesman for the CFS said, "The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Tsuen Wan for testing. The test result showed that the sample contained a pesticide, ethylene oxide. The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sales and remove from shelves the affected product. According to the CFS's instructions, the manufacturer concerned has initiated a recall on the affected product. Members of the public may call its hotline at 9616 7734 during office hours for enquiries about the recall of the product concerned."

The spokesman continued, "The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified ethylene oxide as a Group 1 carcinogen. According to the Pesticide Residues in Food Regulation (Cap. 132CM), a food for human consumption containing pesticide residue may only be sold if consumption of the food is not dangerous or prejudicial to health. An offender is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction."

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

Ends/Tuesday, March 19, 2024