The Chinese government has announced an investigation into allegations that fuel tankers, after transporting toxic chemicals, were used to carry cooking oil without proper cleaning between loads.
This controversy has ignited concerns about food contamination among social media users.
State-run Beijing News reported that tankers, initially used for transporting fuel, were found carrying food products like cooking oil and syrup without adequate decontamination.
This practice was allegedly so common that it was considered an “open secret” in the industry, according to a driver quoted by the newspaper.
This scandal has become a major issue, raising doubts about the Chinese government’s enforcement of food safety standards.
The topic has been trending on Chinese social media, particularly on Weibo, where tens of thousands of posts have garnered millions of views.
One popular comment, liked over 8,000 times, stated, “Food safety is the most important issue.” Another user remarked, “As an ordinary person, surviving in this world itself is an amazing thing already.”
Many have drawn parallels to the 2008 Sanlu milk scandal, where approximately 300,000 children fell ill and at least six died after consuming milk powder tainted with melamine.
One user commented, “This is much worse than the Sanlu scandal; it can’t be settled with just [a] statement.”
In China, tankers are not restricted to specific types of goods and can transport food products immediately after carrying coal-based oils.
The allegations involve several major Chinese companies, including a subsidiary of state-owned Sinograin and the Hopefull Grain and Oil Group. Sinograin announced that it is investigating whether food safety regulations were followed and has suspended the use of any trucks found in violation.
A representative from Hopefull Grain stated that the company is conducting a “thorough self-inspection.”
The Chinese government has assured that food safety officials will conduct a thorough investigation and promised to punish any companies and individuals involved in wrongdoing.
They have pledged to promptly publish the findings of the investigation. State broadcaster CCTV reported, “Illegal enterprises and relevant responsible persons will be severely punished in accordance with the law and will not be tolerated.”
Additionally, the Hebei and Tianjin provincial governments have also initiated their own investigations into the matter.
Source-BBC
