Pre-packaged bamboo shoot sample found to breach food labelling rules
Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety ordered a recall of 'Gao Shan Xi Sun' bamboo shoots after detecting undeclared sulphur dioxide. The preservative level was legal, but the label failed to list its function and name, violating regulations.
Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety has ordered the recall of a batch of pre-packaged bamboo shoots after a sample was found to breach food labelling regulations. The product, 'Gao Shan Xi Sun' (brand: Jisen), with a net weight of 250 grammes and originating from China, was sold online via HKTV Mall. The best-before date is 2 August 2027. The total distributor is Jisen Food Company.
In a statement issued on 6 October 2026, a Centre spokesman said the sample was collected from an online store under the authority's routine food surveillance programme. Tests showed the sample contained sulphur dioxide at a level compliant with legal requirements, but the food label did not declare the additive's functional class or name.
The Centre has informed the total distributor and the retailer of the violation and instructed them to stop sales and remove the affected batch from shelves. The distributor has initiated a recall. Consumers can call the distributor's hotline at 6275 2510 during office hours for recall-related enquiries.
Sulphur dioxide is a preservative permitted in foods such as dried vegetables, dried fruit, pickled vegetables and salted fish. It is soluble in water, and most of it can be removed by washing and cooking. However, individuals with a sensitivity to sulphur dioxide may experience symptoms such as asthma, headache or nausea after consumption.
The spokesman reminded traders that the use of preservatives in food must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulations (Cap. 132BD). Under the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W), pre-packaged food sold in Hong Kong that contains more than 10 parts per million of sulphites must declare the functional class and name of the sulphites in the ingredients list. Offenders convicted face a maximum fine of HK$50,000 and six months' imprisonment.
The Centre will notify the trade and continue to follow up the incident, taking appropriate action. The investigation is ongoing.