Senior official: Food inspections are inadequate

Chemical hazards are the top concern for food safety in China - primarily the abuse of additives and excessive residues of agricultural chemicals and veterinary drugs - but the administration lacks the capacity for efficient management and supervision, according to Bi Jingquan, head of the Food and Drug Administration.

Bi made the remark on Monday at a news conference held by the State Council Information Office.

"Many of our front-line food safety inspection staff lack the professional knowledge or equipment for timely detection," he said.