The Health Ministry (MOH) of Malaysia has initiated surveillance at all 70 entry points since November of the previous year, focusing on mandarin oranges imported for the festive season, ensuring compliance with the Food Regulations 1985 and the Food Act 1983. The major exporters of mandarin oranges to Malaysia, as identified by the Food Safety Information System of Malaysia, include China, South Africa, Japan, Australia, and Egypt.
Out of 243 orange samples analyzed, 9 or 3.7% failed to meet the maximum pesticide residue levels permitted, leading to their disposal. Importers with non-compliant shipments will face a Level 5 inspection for their subsequent consignment, which entails detention for sampling and release upon satisfactory analysis results.
The MOH has underscored its commitment to continuous monitoring at entry points and local markets to safeguard consumer health, emphasizing the importance of adherence to food safety regulations by all importers. In line with this, a nationwide operation commenced on Jan 19, coinciding with Chinese New Year celebrations, and is set to conclude on Feb 1, aimed at ensuring the safety of food products under the Food Act 1983.
Source: Bernama