Another Two Batches of Chung Lien Oils Found with Excessive Benzopyrene; Minister Shih Confirms 'Problematic' Samples, Downstream Products Already Withdrawn

Chung Lien Oil is once again embroiled in controversy. Minister of Health and Welfare Shih Chong-liang announced today (16th) that two more batches of crude oil stored by Chung Lien Oil were found to contain benzopyrene levels exceeding safety standards. This finding contradicts earlier results, which indicated only one batch reported by Nanchiao was不合格, suggesting significant issues with the samples retained by Chung Lien.

Shih explained that initially, among the 29 batches of crude oil seized from Chung Lien, only the batch reported by Nanchiao was deemed不合格, with the remaining 28 passing inspection. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspected irregularities. Subsequent retesting of 52 crude oil samples supplied by Chung Lien to companies including Tatung, Fushou, and Formosa revealed that two batches—imported on April 8th and April 13th—also exceeded benzopyrene limits.

Shih emphasized, "This once again proves that the samples retained and provided by Chung Lien have serious problems." The FDA is now conducting individual inspections on the 52 crude oil samples supplied to Formosa, Fushou, and Tatung, as well as the 321 end products made from them. Testing is expected to be completed within a week, followed by comparative analysis with Chung Lien's retained samples.

Regarding coordination between central and local authorities, Shih noted that while the Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act assigns respective responsibilities, central authorities will now coordinate in cases involving multiple counties or cities, especially during public announcements. This policy follows a directive from Premier Cho Jung-tai, who urged central and local governments to coordinate and confirm lists of不合格 products to avoid public confusion.

Additional reports have highlighted concerns about changes in management control at Chung Lien, the release on bail of its CEO, and the health impacts of benzopyrene exposure.