Eighteen people have been arrested for manufacturing fake seasoning using dangerous ingredients and labeling the counterfeits as well-known brands in a production hub located in Tianjin.
It is reported last month that manufacturers at a township in North China's Tianjin Municipality were allegedly found to be counterfeiting more than 1 billion yuan worth of food seasoning from famous brands like Nestle and Totole.
At least 50 plants were alleged counterfeiting the goods in the township of Duliu, which is known for one of the main producers of vinegar in Northern China. It is reported that 500,000 yuan worth of goods is manufactured every day in Duliu, which will be worth up to 100 million yuan per year.
After this broke last month, the city set up a team to investigate the 50 plants that are alleged on producing fake soy sauce, vinegar, spices and chicken stock using artificial coloring, food additives, and industrial salt.
The counterfeiting was reportedly operational as it is unchecked for 10 years.
During the investigation, the police arrested 18 suspects, three of whom are prime culprits. They also shut down counterfeit gangs and punished seven production sheds.
The municipal government stated: "The scandal reflected the delinquency of the local authorities, and found 15 district and county officials accountable. Among them, 12 have been punished, including three county leaders who have been dismissed from their administrative posts and in the Communist Party."
China has been no stranger to food safety scandals over the years. A shanghai food company supplied old meat to fast food chains in 2014. 35 restaurants were found to be selling food seasoned with opium poppies in 2016.
President Xi Jinping has called for greater efforts for ensuring food safety. He noted that there are still many problems and concerns despite the improved food safety.
He also called for the most stringent regulation, the most rigorous standards, the most severe punishment as well as the most serious accountability for improving food safety controls.