TFDA Denies Adjusting Fipronil Standards for Apples, Warns Against Spreading Rumors

(Central News Agency reporter Chen Chieh-ling, Taipei, July 13) Recent Facebook posts have falsely claimed that the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) relaxed the allowable pesticide residue limit for fipronil on apples by six times. The TFDA today firmly denied the rumors, emphasizing that it has not set any fipronil residue standard for apples. Those spreading such false information may face legal action, including up to three years in prison or a fine of up to NT$1 million.

Rumors about 'toxic apples' and relaxed pesticide standards have circulated online, with Facebook posts falsely stating that the TFDA increased the fipronil residue limit on apples sixfold. Hsu Chao-kai, Section Chief of the Food Division at the Ministry of Health and Welfare's TFDA, stated in a media briefing today that these claims are factually incorrect and have caused public concern about apple safety. The actual pesticide involved in the recent adjustment is fenpropathrin, not fipronil.

Fenpropathrin (Fenpropathrin) and fipronil (Fipronil) are two distinct pesticide compounds. Hsu explained that fipronil is an environmental pesticide and is not permitted for agricultural use. In contrast, fenpropathrin is already approved for use on fruits and vegetables, with individual residue standards already established for crops like grapes and wax apples. Previously, apples were covered under the general 'pome fruit' category standard; now, they have been moved to an individual standard, aligning with grapes and wax apples.

Hsu stated that the change to an individual standard for apples was initiated by a multinational company's application in 2022, which included residue trial data compliant with usage regulations. The evaluation followed international practices, reflected actual usage, and was based on scientific assessment—not a relaxation of standards. He emphasized that the decision was not influenced by pressure from the United States.

Hsu reiterated that pesticide residue limits are established through risk assessments based on domestic and international data, toxicological studies, field residue trials, and Taiwanese dietary patterns. There is no truth to claims of U.S. pressure or political exchange, and the adjustment is unrelated to the Taiwan-U.S. Agreement on Trade (ART).

Regarding the spread of false information on social media platforms like Facebook, Hsu said the TFDA will compile posts and evidence and forward them to local authorities for legal action. It will also request Meta to remove the false content promptly under platform policies to prevent further misinformation.

He warned that unverified speculation or insinuations not only mislead the public but may violate Article 46-1 of the Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act, which penalizes spreading food safety rumors or false information with up to three years in prison, detention, or a fine of up to NT$1 million. The public is urged to verify information before sharing.

The TFDA stated in a press release today that it had already held a press conference in May to refute these false claims, issued official statements, and used its official Facebook page 'TFDA - Foodie Players' to clarify the facts and inform the public. Citizens are encouraged to follow the principle of 'do not believe easily, do not forward, verify first.' (Editor: Kuan Chung-wei) 1150713