FEHD joins hands with Police to raid suspected smuggling of frozen food (with photos)

In a joint operation with the Police yesterday (October 29) and today (October 30), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) seized about 26,000 kilograms of suspected smuggled frozen food with a total estimated market value of about $3,000,000 in Public Cargo Working Area of Chai Wan.

The frozen food, including beef and offals, came without health certificates issued by an issuing entity from the place of origin or obtaining prior permission in writing from the FEHD. During the operation, the FEHD invited a 49-year-old man to assist investigation. The meat concerned has been marked and sealed, and has not entered the market. The FEHD is tracing the source of the products, and investigation is ongoing. The investigation against the man concerned for suspected violation of the Food Business Regulation is still ongoing. Prosecution will be taken out if there is sufficient evidence.

In accordance with the Imported Game, Meat, Poultry and Eggs Regulations (Cap. 132AK), any person who imports game, meat, poultry or eggs should produce a health certificate issued by an issuing entity from the place of origin or obtain prior permission in writing from the FEHD. Offenders are liable on conviction to a fine of $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.

"As meat from dubious sources have not been tested, they may pose health risks to the public. The FEHD and relevant departments will continue to step up surveillance and deter the illegal import of meat to safeguard food safety and public health," a spokesman for the FEHD said.

The spokesman reminded the trade to comply with the laws and not to import or sell meat from dubious sources and without health certificates. Members of the public should purchase meat from licensed and reputable vendors.

"The Government will continue to take stringent enforcement action against unlicensed food businesses to safeguard food safety and public health," the spokesman added.

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

Ends/Saturday, October 30, 2021

In a joint operation with the Police yesterday (October 29) and today (October 30), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department seized about 26 000 kilograms of suspected smuggled frozen food in Public Cargo Working Area of Chai Wan. Photo shows some of the frozen beef and offals seized.

In a joint operation with the Police yesterday (October 29) and today (October 30), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department seized about 26 000 kilograms of suspected smuggled frozen food in Public Cargo Working Area of Chai Wan. Photo shows some of the frozen beef and offals seized.