Xa's production facility in Mao Khe ward was recently inspected by the Economic Police Department, and numerous violations were discovered, the Quang Ninh Provincial Police announced on 17/4.

During the inspection, authorities reported finding hundreds of bean sprout incubation containers in damp, unsanitary conditions. They also discovered many unlabeled containers of liquid, which the facility owner claimed was "equipment cleaning solution".

However, inspection results revealed that this liquid was 6-Benzylaminopurine (also known as "candy water"), a plant growth hormone prohibited for use in food.

The facility owner admitted to mixing the "candy water" into the irrigation water. This method stimulated the bean sprouts to grow quickly, develop plump stems, have short roots, maintain freshness longer, and appear appealing for easier sales.

Authorities seized 4 tons of bean sprouts containing residues of the prohibited substance.

Nearly 4 tons of finished bean sprouts seized at the bean sprout production facility in Mao Khe. *Photo: Police provided*

According to the police, the 1,000 square meter facility has sold approximately 700 kg of bean sprouts daily since 2024, at a price of 6,000-7,000 VND per kg. This means a massive amount of contaminated food has been consumed in local markets, making source control difficult.

The Economic Police Department stated that the chemicals, once purchased, typically had their labels removed and were transferred into colorless, odorless plastic containers to conceal their origin.

Previously, the police also discovered two similar facilities in Quang Yen ward, leading to the seizure of over 8 tons of illegal goods.

Le Tan