China launches probe into goji berry contamination after claims of chemical use

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. 
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.
The CCTV report also revealed that toxic industrial sulphur, which contains large amounts of arsenic which can cause organ damage and failure, was also being used by some merchants to preserve the berries’ bright red colour during unfavourable weather conditions. 
In 2023, China exported nearly 12,000 tonnes of the crop, with Vietnam and Hong Kong among the top destinations, according to a South China Morning Post report. 
This is the second food safety scandal to grip China in recent months. In July, a scandal erupted after news reports revealed that tanker trucks were used to transport cooking oil and chemicals, without being cleaned between loads, in order to save money. It ignited widespread anger across China and saw two drivers arrested and three companies penalised. 
In a statement on Monday, Qinghai’s local government announced that a special task force had been set up to investigate the goji berry contamination claims. “Those found responsible for illegal activities will be severely punished according to the law,” the statement read. 
Results of the investigation and any subsequent actions will be promptly disclosed to the public, it added. 
Similar actions were being taken in the nearby Gansu province to set up a joint investigation team, local food safety authorities said. 
Citing regulations by the local government to promote Qinghai province’s goji berry industry, CCTV reported that the use of sodium metabisulfite and its substitutes is banned in the production of goji berries.