After the Center for Consumption Study and Consultation (CESCON) announced test results that proved rice noodles contained Tinopal--a fluorescent whitening agent used in detergents, the public have openly raised their concerns.
Nguyen Tan Binh, Director of the Department of Health in Ho Chi Minh City and Huynh Le Thai Hoa, Head of the City Food Safety and Hygiene Division, told reporters that health watchdogs will now increase supervision of food producers.
Binh said that from June, food inspectors will conduct spot checks on food manufacturers across the City.
Inspectors will take samples for testing and substandard food will be destroyed and violators will face strict penalties.
Next week, a meeting between food watchdogs and businesses will be convened in which food producers will pledge not to adulterate edible consumer goods with toxic additives and preservatives while processing.
Health agencies have announced a harsh penalty on manufacturers who violate health regulations and businesses are encouraged to mark brand name on packages to reassure consumers.
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Most rice noodles in markets contaminated with Tinopal
