Rumor of 'Zhonglian Whistleblower' Suppressed by Health Ministry Debunked by FDA; Case Referred to Prosecutors

A post titled 'Zhonglian Whistleblower Exposes Contamination' recently surfaced on the social media platform Threads, alleging that a whistleblower from Zhonglian detected benzopyrene—a Group 1 carcinogen—in oil products from Zhonglian and other companies as early as April. The whistleblower reportedly notified the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but was instructed to remain silent because the Ministry of Health and Welfare was preparing for the World Health Assembly in May.

In response, the FDA issued a public rebuttal on the 16th, stating that these claims are entirely false and malicious. The individual claiming to be the 'Zhonglian whistleblower' has fabricated information with ill intent, and the case has already been referred to prosecutors for investigation. The FDA emphasized that spreading false information or rumors related to food safety can result in criminal penalties under Article 46-1 of the Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act, including up to three years in prison, detention, or a fine of up to NT$1 million.

The online post specifically claimed: 'The Zhonglian whistleblower detected benzopyrene at 4.6μg/kg in April—twice the legal limit—and reported it to the FDA.' It further alleged: 'A few days later, Mr. Hong, chairman of Fushou Pai, said his wife received a message from President Lai via Da Ya Electric, instructing Zhonglian Oils to keep quiet and await government notification, without reporting to Taichung City authorities, due to the Ministry of Health’s participation in the WHO Assembly in May.' The FDA has categorically denied all such allegations as baseless.

The FDA clarified that on the evening of June 30, upon receiving reports of excessive benzopyrene in multiple oil products, it immediately initiated an investigation under the Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act and ordered Zhonglian to halt production and sales of the affected products. Over the past half-month, the government has maintained a transparent approach—investigating, penalizing, announcing, and recalling products as necessary—and has continuously updated the public on the progress of the Zhonglian Oils case. All information is fully disclosed on the FDA’s dedicated 'Zhonglian Oils Case' webpage.

The FDA reiterated its commitment to working closely with local governments to protect consumer rights, restore normalcy, and ensure a safe, healthy, and sufficient supply of edible oils.

Related exclusive reports from Feng Media: · Prosecution’s appeal succeeds! Zhonglian CEO Yu Ling-chong’s NT$20 million bail revoked; prosecutors successfully seize assets from four companies · Zhonglian Oils caught hiding recalled batches! FDA imposes NT$3 million fine; total penalties exceed NT$160 million, setting a record in food safety enforcement