Many of the ready-to-eat foods now being sold at markets, retail stores and speciality supermarkets across Da Nang do not meet the food hygiene and safety regulations.  However, the measures being taken by the relevant local agencies are not strong enough the resolve the problem effectively.  Violators have only been reminded about complying with the regulations, or have been given relatively light penalties.

On sale at local traditional markets are a wide range of food products, including dried seafood and meat, fruit juices, candies, jellies and different types of fish sauce.  These products are proving attractive to both local residents and visitors.  The processed foods are usually made at local manufacturing establishments run by individuals or households in areas outside the city.

Inspecting processed food at a local shop

The Deputy Head of the municipal Department of Food Hygiene and Safety, Mr Truong Quoc Khanh, said that some traders at local markets have sold low-quality products to earn better profits.  A recent inspection conducted by his unit revealed that a large number of products were found to be either poorly packaged or without any packaging.  In addition, many products did not state the date and place of manufacturing, or an expiry date.

To solve the problem, local relevant agencies will continue to raise awareness of food hygiene and safety amongst local consumers.  In addition, special attention will be paid to increasing the checks and supervision at local markets in order to stop the trade in fake and substandard products.