Hairy crab importers should come forth with evidence if they feel wrongly affected by the suspension of hairy crab import and sale from two Mainland aquaculture farms.
Centre for Food Safety Controller Dr Gloria Tam made the call in a press conference today, saying the evidence will help the centre and Mainland authorities follow up on the importers’ claims.
The suspension was made after two hairy crab samples were found to contain dioxins at a level that exceeds the centre’s limits.
Dr Tam also explained the present quality control and certification regime of hairy crabs imported from Mainland farms.
Only aquaculture farms on the list approved by the State General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection & Quarantine are qualified to raise food products for export to Hong Kong.
The products also need to come with a health certificate.
"Any trade whose name is on the list has to assume all the responsibilities designated to them in affecting control at source.
"It is not just a signature. They have to walk their talk, and affect all those control regimes."
Assistant Director Dr Choi Mei-yee called on the importers to heed the suspension call, adding that action will be taken against non-abiding parties.
The centre’s measures were backed by Secretary for Food & Health Dr Ko Wing-man.
"Dioxin is a carcinogenic substance and should not exist in our food, therefore relevant products from the farms concerned must be withheld and recalled.
"As to the claims of certain importers that their products were routed through other importers or registered farms, we will further liaise with the Mainland authorities concerned to understand the background."
