Behind the Scenes: Who Is Covering Up? The Chung Lien Oils Carcinogen Scandal – No One Should Escape Accountability

Chung Lien Oils' soybean salad oil supplied to downstream manufacturers was found to contain benzopyrene, a carcinogenic substance exceeding safety standards, sparking widespread public concern across Taiwan. President Lai Qingde stated clearly that the government's stance is firm: 'There is no compromise on food safety. Those responsible will be held accountable by law, without leniency.' Premier Cho Jung-tai also emphasized that the government is handling the issue with the fastest response and highest standards: 'Products must be recalled if necessary, and responsibilities must be pursued.'

While both the president and premier demand accountability, the key question remains: who exactly should be held responsible? Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has fined Chung Lien Oils NT$165 million for 'delayed reporting.' The Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party have called for the resignation of Health Minister Shih Chong-liang and FDA Director-General Chiang Chih-kang. Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen and Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an criticized the central government for 'covering up' by failing to disclose the manufacturer's name after the incident.

Meanwhile, the DPP Taichung City Council caucus argued that source inspection before the incident is more important than post-incident penalties, accusing the Taichung City Government of failing in upstream management. The KMT Legislative Caucus further claimed that Health Minister Shih personally confirmed reporting to Premier Cho on July 3 about a plan to 'only recall first-tier oil products,' to which Cho responded with just four words: 'Further consideration required,' raising suspicions of a cover-up by the central government.

Food safety regulations in Taiwan are primarily governed by the Food Safety and Sanitation Management Act. Yet, amid this crisis, a fierce debate has emerged over whether the central government, local authorities, or the company itself bears primary responsibility. The incident highlights systemic vulnerabilities in food safety oversight, transparency, and intergovernmental coordination, demanding urgent reforms to restore public trust.