CFS Finds Salmonella in Vegan Box

2024-08-08 20:29 Last Updated At：08-09 08:44

CFS finds Salmonella in sample of prepackaged salad

The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (August 8) that a sample of prepackaged roasted portobello mushroom and sweet potato vegan box was found to contain a pathogen, Salmonella. The CFS is following up on the case.

"The CFS collected the above-mentioned sample from a retail outlet in Mong Kok for testing under its routine Food Surveillance Programme. The test result showed the presence of Salmonella in 25 grams of the sample, exceeding the criterion of the Microbiological Guidelines for Food which states that Salmonella should not be detected in 25g of a ready-to-eat food sample," a spokesman for the CFS said.

The CFS has informed the vendor and food factory concerned of the above irregularity and instructed them to stop selling the food item concerned immediately. The CFS has also inspected the food premises and the food factory concerned, provided health education on food safety and hygiene to the person-in-charge and staff, and requested the food factory to review and improve its food production process and carry out a thorough cleaning and disinfection.

According to section 54 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), all food available for sale in Hong Kong, locally produced or imported, should be fit for human consumption. An offender is subject to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for six months upon conviction.

"Salmonella infection may cause fever and gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. The effects on infants, young children, the elderly and people with a weak immune system could be more severe and may even lead to death," the spokesman said.

The CFS will continue to follow up on the incident and take appropriate action to safeguard food safety and public health. An investigation is ongoing.

Hong Kong Films Shine at Chicago's Asian Pop-up Cinema, Strengthening Cultural Ties

2025-04-06 16:00 Last Updated At：16:08

New York ETO showcases Hong Kong cinematic talents in Chicago

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (New York ETO) supported Season 19 of Chicago’s Asian Pop-up Cinema (APUC) by showcasing nine exceptional Hong Kong films and documentaries, including the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4 (Chicago time).

The Office also strengthened the cultural, business and educational ties between Hong Kong and Chicago, Illinois, during a duty visit to the city from April 3 to 5.

At the United States premiere of "The Last Dance" on April 4, Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai was honoured with the Extraordinary Actors Award for her outstanding performance. Director Anselm Chan joined her at the post-screening sharing session.

This year's APUC also welcomed four Hong Kong filmmakers, who presented their works and engaged with the audience. They included directors Ho Miu-ki ("Love Lies") and Albert Mak ("Hit N Fun"), as well as producers Chan Hing-ka ("Love Lies") and Paul Chan ("To Be Continued").

Addressing the award ceremony, the Director of the New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, praised the filmmakers, noting that they represent the diverse and exceptional talents within Hong Kong's creative industry.

"Through our Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support and nurture the growth of Hong Kong's creative industry, ensuring its presence on the global stage. By fostering talent, enhancing local production, and expanding audiences, we remain committed to bringing the best of Hong Kong cinema to the world," she said.

On April 3, the New York ETO cohosted a spring reception with the Hong Kong Business Association of the Midwest and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council . The annual event, attended by over 100 guests from Chicago's business, legal, academic, and cultural sectors, highlighted the strong ties between Hong Kong and Chicago.

Ms Ho noted in her welcome remarks that the Year of the Snake, a symbol of wisdom, adaptability, and transformation, perfectly reflects Hong Kong's ability to continuously reinvent itself while maintaining its leadership in finance and trade. The event also showcased the works of Chicago-based Hong Kong artist Cherry Tung and featured a Hong Kong-themed cocktail.

Ms Ho also had a meeting with Vice President for International Relations at Northwestern University Devora Grynspan to discuss areas of mutual interest and introduce Hong Kong's talent admission schemes available to university graduates. Northwestern University is among the list of eligible institutions under the Top Talent Pass Scheme.