TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan detected illegal Sudan Red dyes in cosmetics for the first time, prompting authorities to intensify import inspections and post-market checks. Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) reported the discovery Wednesday (Nov. 26) at the Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, during a committee hearing. The Food and Drug Administration (食藥署) will add Sudan dyes to its post-market inspection list to prevent future contamination.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare (衛生福利部) discovered Chinese products containing Sudan Red dyes sold on Taiwan's online platforms a day earlier. Eho Company Ltd. (亦鴻企業有限公司) imported the contaminated raw materials from Singapore, affecting 14 businesses across Taiwan. Twelve businesses used the tainted materials in 20 product lines, all of which have been removed from store shelves, Shih confirmed.
Shih noted most businesses lack the necessary testing technology to detect Sudan dyes and require government assistance. Taiwan's cosmetics regulations already list permitted and banned ingredients and mandate good manufacturing practices (GMP) for industry compliance. The government will enhance post-market monitoring of cosmetic products to prevent future contamination, Shih said.
The Food and Drug Administration plans to fine Eho Company Ltd. NT$5 million (around US$159,744) this week and refer the case to judicial authorities to determine if malicious intent was involved, Shih stated. The agency identified imported raw materials as the contamination source and will trace the entire supply chain. Taiwan notified Singaporean health authorities to investigate the raw material origin and prevent future imports. ◼