Sichuan counties investigate sulfur fumigation of bamboo shoots

Authorities in three counties in Sichuan province have each launched an investigation after a report by People's Daily exposed the use of sulfur to fumigate fresh bamboo shoots, a practice banned under China's food safety standards.

The report, published on Monday, found that some vendors in Mabian Yi autonomous county, Gulin county, and Xuyong county used sulfur to keep bamboo shoots from spoiling.

The three counties released statements late on Monday saying they had set up joint investigation teams and were conducting investigations and broader inspections.

In Mabian, a joint investigation team led by the county's food safety office and joined by the public security, market regulation, and forestry departments was dispatched to the sites for verification. It also launched a countywide inspection of bamboo shoot purchasing, processing, and sales.

Authorities have sealed the processing materials and products involved and are gathering evidence and investigating those responsible, according to Mabian's joint investigation team.

Gulin and Xuyong took similar measures. Gulin's joint investigation team said it had opened a formal investigation into the people involved, and the case remains under further investigation.

Xuyong's joint investigation team said the county would strengthen targeted testing of bamboo shoot products and strictly punish violations in accordance with the law to ensure food safety.