A second major food safety scandal in Taiwan within the past two months has prompted a call for the reform of existing certification systems. 

The Taiwanese regulatory system sees food products and manufacturers assessed for good manufacturing practice and agricultural standards.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Last week, consumer food authorities recalled 54 lard products of food producer Ting Hsin International after more than 850 tonnes of cooking lard oil it imported from Vietnam had been meant for animal use. Concerns are now surfacing the system needs reviewing since the checks are not being carried out sufficiently.

In September, another company, Chang Guann Co., was found to have sold adulterated cooking oil to food processors, restaurants and school canteens.

“The GMP system shows flaws all the time because checks are not strict at all,” Du Yu, chief executive officer of the Chen-Li Task Force for Agricultural Reform, a prominent food standards lobbying group, told just-food. “And also the CAS verification should be replaced, as verification units frequently fail to act according to the standard’s provisions.”

To prevent a shortage of lard oil, on Saturday Taiwan Premier Jiang Yi-huah authorised emergency imports from Japan, Spain and other “advanced countries”.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now