In light of the Japan earthquake causing possible leakages of radiation from nuclear plants, AVA has been monitoring food imports from Japan to ensure that they are safe for consumption. They are being tested for radioactive contaminants. Four samples of vegetables imported from Japan were found to contain radioactive contaminants. AVA will dispose off the affected vegetables in an appropriate manner. To further assure the consumer, MOH stated that the short term consumption at these detected levels of radioactive contaminants would not pose a health hazard. AVA imposes a “hold-and test” programme before releasing the other imports into the market for sale to ensure that they are safe. They will suspend the import of products that are found to contain radioactive contaminants.

Isn't it great that we have AVA to monitor our food supply with stringent measures? Without them, we would be facing huge risk of food borne illnesses and so on. Another case highlights the product recall announced by US FDA regarding the brand "Skippy" peanut butter containing Salmonella. However, none of the batches that contain that hazard has been imported into Singapore. Thus, consumers don't have to worry about purchasing that in our country. However, they are advised to discard off those that are bought outside of Singapore for food safety purposes.