On 6/7, Ho Chi Minh City's Economic Police Department (PC03) initiated proceedings against three establishments in the Ben Luc residential area (formerly Binh Dong ward, District 8) for processing banana blossoms with hazardous chemicals.

Banana blossoms soaked in chemicals to remove sap and whiten. Photo: Police Department

PC03 task forces simultaneously inspected the three establishments and discovered large quantities of shredded banana blossoms soaking in 200-liter plastic containers filled with water mixed with an unlabeled white powder.

At a company with numerous employees, police also found 60 kg of banana blossoms soaking in water containing sodium metabisulfite (Na2S2O5), alum, and borax.

One owner admitted to operating without a business license or food safety certification. The establishment purchased nearly 500 kg of banana blossoms daily at 8,000 VND/kg, soaking them repeatedly in chemicals. After processing, the remaining 200+ kg were sold to wholesale markets for 20,000-30,000 VND/kg. The owner purchased the chemicals from shops in the former District 5.

Inspectors confiscated over 115 kg of processed banana blossoms and dozens of kilograms of powdered and granular chemicals at the three locations.

Chemicals seized by police. Photo: Police Department

Shredded banana blossoms are a common ingredient in many dishes, used as a side vegetable to enhance flavor. Soaking them in chemicals makes them whiter, crispier, and extends their shelf life.

Experts warn that borax is a toxic chemical with long-term health consequences, including potential cognitive decline. Vietnam has banned borax in food production and processing at any level. However, some businesses still use it as a food additive for texture and flavor.

Excessive levels of sodium metabisulfite in banana blossoms can also cause symptoms ranging from mild (abdominal pain, diarrhea, allergies) to severe (breathing difficulties, bronchial spasms, liver and kidney damage, and even death).

Nhat Vy