Bangkok:The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that no imports of enoki mushrooms from Chinese producers, which were flagged by the United States for potential Listeria contamination, have been found in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai FDA responded to a US announcement regarding the monitoring of enoki mushrooms from certain Chinese producers due to Listeria contamination alerts. Initial investigations by the Thai FDA revealed that there were no imports from the producers mentioned in the US warning. Furthermore, the Thai FDA has emphasized the importance of cooking enoki mushrooms thoroughly to ensure safe consumption.
Pharmacist Supatra Boonsearm, Secretary-General of the FDA, noted that following the US FDA's Import Alert 99-35, which identified some Chinese enoki mushroom producers for Listeria contamination, the Thai FDA has been closely monitoring import data. No imports from the specified producers have been identified in Thailand. The agency has increased the sampling and analysis of imported enoki mushrooms for Listeria and continues to oversee the safety of imported foods based on risk assessments.
The FDA highlighted that Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria in question, is commonly found in the environment and can contaminate agricultural products, including vegetables. However, it can be destroyed through proper cooking. The public is advised to adhere to food safety guidelines, such as maintaining cleanliness, separating raw and cooked foods, cooking food thoroughly, storing food at appropriate temperatures, and using clean water and safe ingredients. Restaurant operators are also encouraged to prioritize food hygiene and ensure enoki mushrooms are cooked thoroughly before serving.