By KHT Staff. AI image for illustration only.
KAOHSIUNG — Kaohsiung health officials said Tuesday they will step up surprise inspections of snack vendors near elementary schools after reports that students were being sold repackaged snacks with unclear origins.
The Kaohsiung City Department of Health (高雄市政府衛生局) said it will work with the Education Bureau (高雄市政府教育局) to inspect stalls near schools and remove products that violate food-safety rules.
Officials said imported food must pass inspection by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (衛生福利部食品藥物管理署) and carry the required Traditional Chinese labeling, including the product name, country of origin, and expiration date.
Vendors who repackage bulk snacks for resale must also follow food hygiene rules, the department said.
The department said vendors selling improperly labeled food, or refusing to identify suppliers, could face fines of NT$30,000 to NT$3 million. Serious violations could lead to suspension, cancellation of business registration, or revocation of food-vendor registration. Vendors whose registration is revoked cannot reapply for one year.
The department also warned that unauthorized use of food additives must be corrected within a required period or could result in fines.
Officials urged parents and residents to report suspicious food products to authorities. Consumer disputes can also be reported through the 1950 consumer protection hotline.
