Ten Ren Tea Responds to Melamine Sponge Controversy, Halts Use Immediately
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong chain tea shop Ten Ren Tea has responded to a food safety controversy after netizens alleged staff used melamine foam sponges—colloquially called "Little White"—to clean food containers such as tea buckets and juicers. The company stated on June 12 that it has immediately halted use of the product and apologized to the public. Ten Ren Tea emphasized that it has engaged independent third-party inspector SGS to conduct regular inspections of its stores, with all past test results showing compliance and no detection of harmful chemicals .
Key Points
- Netizens raised concerns on social media that Ten Ren Tea staff were using "Little White" melamine foam sponges to clean food-contact equipment, with hot water used afterward to rinse .
- The Consumer Council warns that melamine foam is made of melamine-formaldehyde resin (melamine), which can release微量 amounts of melamine and formaldehyde under sustained high temperatures, acidic conditions, or contact with oils .
- Dr. Yen Tsung-hai, Director of Clinical Toxicology at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, advises melamine foam should never be used on food items or items that contact the mouth, such as nipples, teething toys, and straws .
- The company has arranged for SGS to regularly inspect beverages, ice, and store environments; all past results showed合格 with no harmful chemicals detected .
- Experts recommend using melamine foam only on non-food surfaces such as floors, glass, tiles, and walls—never on dishes, cookware, or produce .
Why It Matters
This incident highlights the importance of proper cleaning methods in food establishments, as improper use of everyday household products can pose health risks to consumers. It also underscores the need for clearer public education about the limitations of common cleaning products, as melamine foam is widely available at low cost but often lacks proper usage warnings .
This incident highlights the importance of proper cleaning methods in food establishments, as improper use of everyday household products can pose health risks to consumers. It also underscores the need for clearer public education about the limitations of common cleaning products, as melamine foam is widely available at low cost but often lacks proper usage warnings .