FEHD appeals to public not to order lunch boxes from unknown sources (with photo)

     The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) raided an unlicensed food factory in Causeway Bay during a blitz operation yesterday (August 22). A spokesman for the FEHD appealed to the public not to order lunch boxes from unknown sources. 

     Acting on intelligence collected, the FEHD conducted a blitz operation yesterday, successfully raiding an upper floor unit on Lee Garden Road, Causeway Bay, which was suspected to be used as an unlicensed food factory. During the operation, the FEHD arrested one person and initiated prosecution procedures for suspected operation of a food factory without a licence and dirty food premises, and disposed of about 30 kilograms of food (including lunch boxes ready for delivery). Additionally, the case has been referred to relevant departments for action regarding the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas cylinders and open-fire cooking at the unlicensed food factory, which posed a safety hazard to the public.

     The spokesman said, "It is believed that the unlicensed food factory provided lunch boxes to persons working in the district by distributing promotional leaflets and receiving orders by phone." The spokesman reminded members of the public that poor hygiene conditions of unlicensed food factories may pose health risks. Improper storage and use of fuel and the lack of fire prevention equipment also endanger the lives of neighbours. When ordering lunch boxes through the Internet or phone, members of the public should make sure that the food manufacturing premises hold a valid food business licence issued by the FEHD to safeguard food safety and hygiene. Licensed food premises are required to exhibit a sign, at a conspicuous place near the main entrance, indicating that the premises have been licensed. Licensed food premises providing food delivery services shall provide the licence information legibly on the printed promotional materials for the knowledge of the public. A list of licensed food premises is available on the FEHD's website (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/licensing/list_licensed_premises.html).

     The FEHD will continue to take stringent enforcement action against unlicensed food business to safeguard food safety and public health. Under the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X), anyone operating a food factory without a licence commits an offence and is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.

     Members of the public can report any suspected illegal food business activities by calling the FEHD hotline 2868 0000.