European Union Reports Non-compliant Chinese Snacks and Seasonings in Export Products

In a recent development, the European Union (EU) has issued a notification regarding the non-compliance of certain Chinese snacks and seasonings exported to the EU market. This notification, received through the EU's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), highlights specific products that have failed to meet the required standards. 

According to the official notification from the EU, several Chinese snacks and seasonings exported to the European market have been deemed non-compliant. The RASFF report, dated April 12, 2024, outlines the specific products and their corresponding issues.

The first case involves snacks exported to Italy. These snacks were found to have undeclared allergens, specifically shellfish. As a result, the products have not been released into the market, and official measures are being taken to enhance inspections and prevent their distribution. This case is classified as a refusal of entry notification.

The second case pertains to seasonings exported to the Netherlands. The seasonings were found to contain levels of benzo[a]pyrene (15 µg/kg) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (123 µg/kg). The affected products had already been distributed to other EU member states. Consequently, notifications have been issued to the recipients, the consignor has been informed, and the products are being withdrawn from the market. This case is classified as a warning notification.

The third case involves a nylon crusher exported to Ireland. It was found that the product exhibited migration of primary aromatic amines at a level of 0.013 ± 0.0003 mg/kg. The consignment has not been distributed within the country and is currently being held by the authorities. This case is also classified as a refusal of entry notification.

Furthermore, a paper plate exported to France was found to contain levels of di-n-butyl phthalate (0.5 mg/kg) and diisobutyl phthalate (0.42 mg/kg). The affected products have not been distributed within the country and are being recalled from consumers. This case is classified as a warning notification.

Additionally, a pancake shovel exported to Belgium was found to exhibit migration of primary aromatic amines. The products have not been distributed within the country and are being withdrawn from the market. Further information regarding this case will be communicated in subsequent notifications. This case is categorized as a follow-up information notification.

Lastly, a nylon kitchen tool exported to Poland was found to exhibit migration of primary aromatic amines at levels of 0.070±0.011 and 0.100±0.016 mg/kg. The distribution of these products is limited to the notified country, and the authorities have been duly informed. This case is classified as a warning notification.

It is worth noting that the non-compliant seasonings were distributed to Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands. In light of these incidents, it is crucial for Chinese exporters to adhere strictly to import requirements of destination countries. Attention should be given to the migration levels of substances present in food contact materials to ensure the safety of food and related products, thereby mitigating export risks.

The EU's recent notification regarding non-compliant Chinese snacks and seasonings emphasizes the importance of meeting regulatory standards when exporting food products. Chinese exporters are urged to comply with the specific requirements of destination countries to ensure the safety and quality of their products. By doing so, they can maintain consumer trust, avoid market access issues, and contribute to the overall integrity of the global food trade.