CFS finds trace of malachite green in grass carp sample

     The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (July 10) announced that a trace amount of malachite green was found in a grass carp sample. Follow-up is in progress.

     A CFS spokesman said, "Subsequent to announcing earlier that a grass carp sample taken from a stall in Aberdeen Market was found to contain a trace amount of malachite green, the CFS detected a similar irregularity in another grass carp sample taken from the same stall for testing during follow-up investigations. The test result showed that it contained malachite green at a level of 2.2 parts per billion."

     The CFS has informed the vendor concerned of the irregularity and instructed it to stop sale of all the affected product from the same supplier. The CFS will also trace the source and distribution of the affected product. Should there be sufficient evidence, prosecution will be instituted.

     Malachite green is a type of industrial dye and has been used for treating infections in fish. Currently, malachite green has been prohibited for use in food-producing animals in many countries. According to the Harmful Substances in Food Regulations (Cap 132AF), no food sold in Hong Kong is allowed to contain malachite green. Offenders will be prosecuted and will be liable to a fine of $50,000 and to imprisonment for six months upon conviction.

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