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The FEHD is tasked to ensure that the food available for human consumption
is safe and properly labelled. It also aims to safeguard public health
through the testing and control of live food animals.
Under the food surveillance programme, 54 451
samples were taken in 2003 for chemical, microbiological and/or radiological
testing to ensure that food was fit for human consumption.
A total of 69 538 and 42 667 vehicles
carrying food (vegetables and other food) and live food animals (pigs,
cattle and poultry) were inspected at the Man Kam To Food Control Office
and 235 620 blood and 65 687 urine and tissue
samples were taken from food animals for testing for diseases and veterinary
drug residues as prescribed by the law. The Government Laboratory provides
a comprehensive range of analytical and advisory services to support the
Government in upholding its commitments in protecting public health. During
the year, a total of 92 052 tests on a wide range of food
samples were carried out for surveillance and for compliance with the
statutory standards. The Laboratory continued to participate in technological
exchanges with its Mainland counterparts with a view to strengthening
technical capabilities in ensuring food safety and protecting public health.
The Government proposes to implement a labelling system
to ensure that the declaration of nutritional information is consistent
across the range of prepackaged food on sale in Hong Kong and to protect
consumers from false claims. The public, the food trade and other organisations
were consulted on the labelling proposals in late 2003. The Government
will take full account of the views received before finalising the details
of the labelling requirements.
A regulatory impact assessment study was completed
during the year to assess the possible economic impact of introducing
a labelling scheme on prepackaged genetically modified (GM) food in Hong
Kong. The study result was made available to the public. After considering
the results of the study, the Government proposed to introduce a pre-market
safety assessment to be supplemented by a voluntary labelling system for
such GM food. The details of the pre-market safety assessment requirement
and the proposed voluntary labelling guidelines will be drawn up for consultation
in due course. Meanwhile, the department continues to provide the community
with factual and unbiased information on GM food through a multitude of
channels including its website, newsletters, teaching kits, and seminars
for students and teachers. |
