Revelations that cooking oil has been transported in containers previously used to carry fuel have sparked widespread outrage in China. This scandal highlights significant concerns about food safety in a country already plagued by similar issues.
The Investigation
Last week, the Beijing News, a local state-backed outlet, published an investigation into what it called an “open secret” in the transportation industry. The report revealed that several tanker trucks transported edible cooking oil immediately after unloading coal oil without any cleaning process in between journeys. Truck drivers admitted to this practice, citing cost-cutting measures due to increasing competition.
Health Risks
Food science expert Zhu Yi warned that long-term consumption of coal oil, which mainly consists of hydrocarbons, could lead to poisoning. Symptoms of such poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and potential irreversible damage to organs like the liver and kidneys.
Government Response
In response to the public outcry, the central government announced an investigation into the matter. The State Council’s food safety office stated that an interdepartmental team would investigate the transportation of edible oil and ensure those responsible for any malpractice are severely punished according to the law.
Industry Reaction
The scandal implicates major state-owned food company Sinograin and private conglomerate Hopefull Grain and Oil Group. Both companies have launched internal investigations. Other major edible oil manufacturers not named in the report have issued statements asserting they do not use fuel trucks to transport their products.
Public Backlash
On social media platforms, the public has expressed anger and called for product recalls and greater industry oversight. The scandal has exacerbated frustrations amid China’s economic downturn and concerns over accountability for powerful entities.
Food Safety Regulations
Experts cited by state media noted the lack of specific laws governing the transport procedures of edible oils in China. Nevertheless, national guidelines stipulate that transporters should use dedicated containers. Furthermore, mixing toxic and harmful non-edible raw materials with food is considered a criminal offense.
Historical Context
China has faced numerous food safety scandals in recent decades, leading to tighter government regulation. High-profile cases like the 2008 melamine-tainted milk powder incident and the widespread use of “gutter oil” have driven deep mistrust of domestic products and food safety.
The recent cooking oil scandal underscores ongoing issues in China’s food safety regime. With public outrage mounting and government investigations underway, it remains to be seen how this crisis will be resolved and whether it will lead to stricter enforcement of food safety regulations.