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Quality watchdog: imports of toxic dog food unauthorized

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-01-14 09:31

BEIJING -- China's quality watchdog Tuesday denied ever authorizing the import of Optima brand dog food allegedly linked to the deaths of dogs in Chinese cities.

This March 3, 2008 file photo shows a package of Optima brand dog food, allegedly linked to the deaths of dogs in Chinese cities. [pet.poco.cn]

The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (GAQSIQ) said in a statement that local entry-exit inspection and quarantine units had also never allowed the import of the dog food.

Media reports said the Optima brand dog food was imported from Australia and caused the deaths of dogs in Shanghai and other cities.  Chinese domestic media citing vets who treated the sick dogs said the food was suspected of containing aflatoxin, an extremely toxic and carcinogenic fungus found on corn and other grains that can cause liver damage.

The GAQSIQ said responding to the media reports, investigation was carried out immediately, which showed that the GAQSIQ has never authorized the import of such brand dog food and local entry-exit inspection and quarantine units across the country have also never allowed the import of such dog food from Australia.

According to relevant regulations, domestic importers are required to apply for a permit before they can import pets' food and the imported pet food much go through examination and quality safe test by relevant inspection and quarantine units before being allowed to enter country and put on sale.