Mainland Chinese online marketplaces continue to ship raw food products to Hong Kong, disregarding official warnings
In an unexpected turn of events, raw oysters, frozen poultry, and fresh eggs from mainland China are still making their way to Hong Kong, despite a joint warning issued by consumer watchdogs in Hong Kong, Macau, and Guangdong province.
According to reports, these items are being sold on mainland Chinese e-commerce platforms, such as Pinduoduo, and are being shipped to Hong Kong. However, some sellers have noted that they do not deliver certain fresh products, like sashimi or sliced beef, to Hong Kong once a local address is provided.
The raw oysters, sourced from Chaozhou in eastern Guangdong, are available for delivery in vacuum-sealed containers. The Post conducted checks on these oysters being sold on Pinduoduo on Wednesday, revealing that they are packed in styrofoam boxes with ice packs and priced at 79 yuan (US$11) for 5lbs of fresh raw shucked oysters.
Other listings on the platform include frozen chicken breast, raw marinated seafood, frozen whole fish, and frozen herring sashimi fillet. A tray of 50 fresh eggs can be purchased for 27 yuan. Interestingly, free shipping to Hong Kong is offered for the purchase of these oysters.
It's important to note that no information has been provided about any specific warning or advisory issued by the consumer watchdogs regarding these products. This raises concerns about the safety and quality of these imported goods, particularly the raw oysters, which are known carriers of harmful bacteria.
Consumers are advised to exercise caution when purchasing and consuming these products, especially raw oysters, and to ensure they are following proper food safety guidelines to minimise the risk of foodborne illness. It is also recommended to check for any updates or advisories from the local consumer watchdogs regarding these products.
Scientists and health-and-wellness advocates express concern over the importation of raw oysters, frozen poultry, and fresh eggs from mainland China to Hong Kong, as these items are being sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms like Pinduoduo without proper checks on safety and quality. In light of this, fitness-and-exercise enthusiasts and lifestyle enthusiasts may want to reconsider their food-and-drink choices, opting for locally-sourced seafood and poultry instead.