HCM City Dwellers Concerned about Food Safety

Many residents in HCMC have expressed concern over poor food hygiene and safety, saying the city government should take bold measures to put the situation under control. The issue is one of the highlights in a report on voters’ comments gathered as inputs for the 20th meeting of the HCMC People’s Council that kicks off on December 8. Local media has recently reported that harmful substances have been used in fruits, vegetables, meat and food products. People are also worried about goods sold at supermarkets since several supermarkets reportedly buy goods of unclear origin and label them as their products. Citizens said they do not know whether food is contaminated with additives and stimulants or not. Data of the city government showed that 245 people had been food poisoned in five cases in the city this year, up two cases year-on-year. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. However, city dwellers insisted that agencies like police and market monitors should regularly inspect factories and firms and take sanctions against those infringing regulations. Voters also proposed a ban on sales of harmful substances and additives of unclear origins at Kim Bien Market in HCMC’s District 5. The market has sold many chemicals including hazardous ones but has not been strictly monitored. The 20th meeting of the HCMC People’s Council is scheduled to last until December 11. Deputies will discuss public investment projects for the first half next year, a toll hike at Hanoi Highway station, and basic construction projects funded by the city’s budget next year. (http://english.thesaigontimes.vn/ Dec 8)