SINGAPORE: Authorities in China have launched an investigation into the production of goji berries following a state news report which revealed harmful chemicals being used by merchants to retain the crop’s bright red colour, the second food safety scandal to hit the country in recent months.
On Sep 1, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV released a report that revealed excessive usage of sodium metabisulfite in goji berry production in China’s northern Qinghai and Gansu provinces.
Sodium metabisulfite, often used as a preservative in pharmaceuticals and food, was used to “enhance” the berries’ bright red colours so they could be sold at higher prices.
Goji berries, also called wolfberries, are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine as well as in tonic soups for health benefits. The berries contain vitamins and minerals that help protect the liver, and improve eyesight.
In the CCTV report, several merchants in Qinghai, who remained unidentified, said that the berries would often turn dark and no one would purchase their crops – leading to their hard work being “wasted”. They were aware of adverse effects of sodium metabisulfite, such as skin irritation and respiratory issues when consumed in excessive amounts.
One merchant, who chose not to add the chemical to his crop because it was “bad for the body”, said he ended up making huge losses.
“Everyone is adding (sodium metabisulfite),” he said. “There has been no enforcement for the second year running.”
Similarly, in Gansu Province, merchants were found washing dried goji berries in sodium metabisulfite so that the fruit would maintain its bright red colour.
GOJI BERRIES IN SINGAPORE
In response to CNA queries, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) said tests on dried goji berries have been “satisfactory”.
Various forms of sulfites, including metabisulfites, are internationally permitted food additives and are allowed for dried fruits if within stipulated limits, said SFA. Hence, the use of sodium metabisulfite is generally allowed in dried goji berries.
Like other food products, dried goji berries undergo SFA’s sampling and testing. “So far, the results are satisfactory,” it said.
It added that consumers who are allergic to sulfites should always check food labels to ensure that the product does not contain sulfites as an ingredient.
“SFA will continue to conduct monitoring sampling and testing to ensure all food products sold in Singapore are safe for consumption,” it said.
