Mandatory labeling of beef with clenbuterol Chiu Wen-ta: Three directions to start

The issue of ractopamine in American beef has been debated endlessly in the Legislative Yuan. In a radio interview today, the Director-General of the Department of Health, Chiu Wen-ta, said that there has not been any reported case of poisoning due to ractopamine in the world, so it is feasible to set a safe tolerance range and fully inform the public through mandatory labeling. The approach will start from three directions: packaged food, bulk food, and restaurants.

Regarding the controversy over the presence of clenbuterol in beef, the Department of Health said it has completed the plan for mandatory labeling, which will include packaged meat, bulk meat and restaurants, requiring the country of origin of the meat to be labeled in the future.

Chiu Wen-ta pointed out that from a physician's perspective, he attaches great importance to literature reports from various countries. At present, there is indeed no case report of ractopamine poisoning. He also reiterated that if there is a case in the future, he will be the first to jump out and oppose it. However, in order to allow the public to have the opportunity to choose freely, the plan for mandatory labeling has been completed, including packaged meat, bulk meat and restaurants, which must indicate the country of origin of the meat.

Food and Drug Administration Director Kang Zhaozhou pointed out that it is a consensus to label the country of origin of meat products. Some people also hope to further label the place of origin, such as "California, USA", or even directly indicate "contains ractopamine" on the label. However, the latter approach may be considered discriminatory. Currently, the Department of Health tends to label the country of origin, and as for which places of origin are allowed to use ractopamine, they will be announced separately.

The scope of implementing mandatory labeling is also inclined to be divided into two stages. Kang Zhaozhou said that if the amendment is passed, stores and restaurants will implement it immediately. As for some smaller markets or night markets, it may not be implemented all at once, so they are considering giving them a guidance period first. The labeling method will also vary depending on the type of meat sold. Kang Zhaozhou explained that if the meat in the restaurant is from a single source, a sign can be used at the door to inform them, but if beef from different sources is used, they must be clearly labeled on the menu.

In addition, Chiu Wen-ta also mentioned that strict inspection procedures would be implemented on meat used in schools, hospitals and military meals. Kang Zhaozhou explained that a recent investigation found that domestic hospitals almost never use beef in their meals, so concerns are relatively low. As for schools and the military, they can sign contracts and require manufacturers to provide beef that does not contain clenbuterol to reduce concerns about consumption.