Stories from Taichung · Taiwan

Taiwanese authorities seized 26.4 kilograms of Canadian refrigerated sea urchin found to have heavy metal levels exceeding safety standards. Taiwanese authorities seized 26.4 kilograms of chilled sea urchin from Canada imported by Zhen Xian Co., Ltd. Additionally, 1,000 kilograms of dried chili powder from mainland China, imported by Magic First Co., Ltd., was found to contain Sudan dye No. The Food and Drug Administration has increased inspection rates for Zhen Xian to between 20% and 50%. The contaminated goods must be returned or destroyed at the border. Authorities will implement 100% testing for Sudan Red in chili powder from mainland China until April 22 next year. Authorities also identified 26.4 kilograms of refrigerated sea urchin imported from Canada by Magic Xiansi Co., Ltd. Sampling rates for certain products at the border have been adjusted to between 20% and 50%.

The Taichung chili water incident has triggered a political controversy in Taiwan. Taichung City Council members are questioning the handling of a recent chili water spraying incident involving a police chief. Democratic Progressive Party Councilor Chou Yung-hung suggested Mayor Lu Shi-yen may have known the truth about the chief's actions while releasing information to create a political smokescreen. Kuomintang Councilor Yang Ta-hung further alleged that Mayor Lu is shifting blame for the incident. The investigation into the police chief's conduct remains ongoing. Taichung City Council members are questioning Mayor Lu Shiow-yen's transparency regarding the precinct chief's involvement in the chili water incident. Police officials stated that disciplinary actions follow National Police Agency regulations and that investigations into other potential suspects are ongoing.

Taichung recorded an average PM2.5 level of 13.5 micrograms per cubic meter last year, marking a record high.

Taichung City Government announced a subsidy program for COVID-19 Type 71 vaccines running from April 27 to December 15. Vaccinations can be administered at contracted medical institutions within the relevant administrative districts. If no contracted institutions are available in a district, alternative arrangements will be made to ensure service continuity. Residents can access these services at designated contracted clinics within their administrative districts. Contracted medical institutions within participating districts will not charge for administration, examination, or materials. Vaccination can be administered at designated contract medical facilities. Low-income residents must present proof of status, health handbooks, and insurance cards to access the service. Social Affairs Bureau lists are used to coordinate vaccinations for specific case recipients.