CFS Warns Against 2 Olitalia Olive Oil Products Over MOAH Contamination
Thestandard · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has warned the public against consuming two Olitalia Pomace Olive Oil products after Belgian food safety authorities detected mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) at levels exceeding acceptable standards. The affected products, distributed by Lorence & Company Limited and packaged in Italy, have been pulled from shelves in Hong Kong as a precautionary measure.
Key Points
- Affected products are Olitalia Pomace Olive Oil in 1L and 5L sizes, distributed by Lorence & Company Limited and packaged in Italy
- Belgium's Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain detected MOAH levels exceeding relevant standards, triggering a full batch recall in Belgium
- The local Hong Kong distributor has voluntarily stopped sales, removed products from shelves, and initiated a recall
- Consumers may call 2293 9398 for enquiries regarding the recall and potential health risks
- Under Hong Kong's Mineral Oil in Food Regulations, mineral oil is prohibited in human food unless as a lubricant not exceeding 0.2% by weight
Why It Matters
MOAH compounds are considered potential carcinogens, making this contamination a serious public health concern. From 2023 to July 2026, the CFS tested over 3,000 edible oil samples with only one previous failure, indicating this represents an isolated but notable food safety incident requiring consumer vigilance . The CFS has contacted Belgian authorities and the investigation remains ongoing.
MOAH compounds are considered potential carcinogens, making this contamination a serious public health concern. From 2023 to July 2026, the CFS tested over 3,000 edible oil samples with only one previous failure, indicating this represents an isolated but notable food safety incident requiring consumer vigilance . The CFS has contacted Belgian authorities and the investigation remains ongoing.