The Consumers' Foundation (
The report from a ministry inspection bureau stated that more than 20 percent of coffee bean samples collected over a one year period from the market were found to be toxic.
According to Chi Yung-chang (
Ochratoxin, one of the most potent naturally occurring carcinogens, is commonly produced by molds that result from improper package seals.
While the US Food and Drug Administration has not set an advisory or regulatory level for ochratoxin in foods, many agree that levels between 10-and-20 parts per billion (ppb) may cause health problems. Some foreign markets have set regulation limits ranging from 5 to 50 ppb.
The ministry report failed to indicate either the content level or the brands found to be contaminated, although the official did say, "Some of these coffee beans were bought in by big companies."
Chi refused to elaborate further, saying it is only a preliminary test and therefore the ministry decided not to reveal the contamination sources.
The ministry official skirted responsibility, saying that coffee lovers and coffee-bean importers should pay attention to the problem.
Panic and confusion appears to be the general reaction of most people.
"They shouldn't just point out some coffee beans sold in the market might contain a cancer-causing substance without revealing the brands," said Hsu Yuan-tai (
According to the bureau, most coffee beans sold in Taiwan are imported from hot, humid countries such as Indonesia and Columbia, and the toxin occurs when the beans are not properly packaged.
Although there is no evidence indicating ochratoxin causes cancer in the human body, clinical studies have shown that after long-term ochratoxin consumption, lab mice contracted liver and kidney tumors, Chi said.
However, a consumer expressed her worry and confusion about the report.
"I would like to protect myself, but I don't know how," said Frances Chen (
A coffee shop operator said the ambiguous government report is creating mass confusion.
"Since the government didn't disclose the test details pertaining to the coffee-bean contamination, consumers' confidence might be affected," said Helen Lo (駱妍妃), public relations manager at Starbucks Coffee Co Taiwan.
With Taiwan now in the WTO, the government should be more careful in conducting food tests, Hsu said.
"As an increasing number of imported foods are coming ashore, the authorities should be more responsible in conducting tests, and the results should be transparent," he said.
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