PESTICIDES IN 21 CHILLI SAMPLES
503 samples analysed since January, says Health Ministry
THE Health Ministry has confirmed that 21 chilli samples in the market did not comply with the standards under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985 relating to pesticide residues.
Its director-general, Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah, said the ministry’s Food Safety and Quality Division had been monitoring imported chillies at the borders and markets.
“The monitoring had started since January and 503 chilli samples, including those from Vietnam, have been analysed.
“The result found 21 samples (4.2 per cent) did not comply with the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985 requirements relating to pesticide residues.
“Enforcement actions have been taken.
“The ministry will continue to monitor vegetables, including chillies, to ensure compliance with the act,” he said yesterday.
Dr Noor Hisham said all imported foods were subject to the law and it was the responsibility of related parties to ensure compliance with legislation.
He said failing to comply with the regulations was an offence and if convicted, shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not up to three years or a fine, or both.
Those who have concerns about food safety can contact a district health office or the state’s Health Department.
They can also go to the ministry’s website or Food Safety and Quality division’s Facebook page.
Yesterday, a local newspaper reported that smuggled red chilli from Vietnam was found to be sold nationwide despite the government’s suspension of the import permit on the commodity since Sept 14.