What Changed
- CFS detected undeclared sulphur dioxide in a sample of prepackaged bamboo shoots imported from mainland China.
- The sole distributor halted sales, removed the product batch from shelves, and initiated a recall under CFS guidance.
- CFS reiterated statutory liability under Cap. 132W, where undeclared sulphite above 10 ppm carries fines up to $50,000 and six months' imprisonment.
Food distributors, importers, and retailers handling prepackaged food products in Hong Kong SAR must ensure strict compliance with local additive labelling requirements, following a regulatory enforcement action by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS). On November 3, 2026, the CFS of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced that a sample of prepackaged bamboo shoots failed to declare an added preservative on its ingredient label.
The affected product, "Baby Bamboo Shoots" (250 grams) under the brand Unionsum Food, originates from mainland China and is distributed by sole distributor Unionsum Food Company, carrying a best-before date of September 2, 2027. Laboratory analysis revealed that the sample contained sulphur dioxide. Although the detected sulphur dioxide concentration remained within legal statutory limits, the packaging failed to state the functional class and name of the additive.
Sulphur dioxide is a water-soluble preservative allowed in specified foods. However, individuals allergic to the chemical may experience adverse reactions such as breathing difficulties, headaches, or nausea after consumption. Following instructions from the CFS, the sole distributor ceased sales, removed the affected batch from retail shelves, and initiated a public recall. The CFS urged members of the public not to consume the batch and instructed the food trade to stop using or selling it immediately.
Under the Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W), prepackaged food offered for sale in Hong Kong SAR containing sulphite in a concentration of 10 parts per million or more must explicitly state the functional class and name of the sulphite in the list of ingredients. Non-compliance constitutes an offence punishable upon conviction by a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to six months' imprisonment. Furthermore, the use of preservatives must comply with the Preservatives in Food Regulation (Cap. 132BD).
The CFS stated that its investigation is ongoing and that it will continue following up on the incident. Businesses exporting food to or selling prepackaged items within Hong Kong SAR should review their packaging labels to ensure full adherence to statutory food disclosure rules.
Who May Be Affected
Food importers, distributors, and retailers in Hong Kong SAR, food manufacturers/exporters in mainland China, and local consumers.
Cross-Border Context
The product originated in mainland China and was imported into Hong Kong SAR, where it must satisfy local statutory packaging and ingredient disclosure regulations under Cap. 132W.
What to check next
- Monitor further CFS announcements regarding the ongoing investigation
- Audit product ingredient declarations for prepackaged food lines distributed in Hong Kong SAR to ensure compliance with Cap. 132W and Cap. 132BD
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Consult the official text and obtain advice appropriate to your circumstances where needed.