Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has announced that Indonesia is prepared to halt the import of Shine Muscat grapes from China if tests reveal any hazardous substances.
The Ministry of Agriculture awaits results from the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM), which holds regulatory authority over food safety in Indonesia.
“Yes, it should be stopped if it’s dangerous,” Sudaryono said at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Thursday. He further mentioned that the ministry is awaiting BPOM’s in-depth analysis regarding the grape’s contents. “If violations or harmful substances are indeed present, we will review and impose a ban if necessary,” he added.
The Ministry of Agriculture plans to coordinate with the Ministry of Industry and Trade should the presence of harmful content be confirmed.
“Our ministry gives recommendations, but the authority to enforce export or import orders lies with the Ministry of Trade. Our recommendation generally influences their decision,” Sudaryono explained.
In response to concerns about pesticide residues on Shine Muscat grapes, Indonesia’s National Food Agency (Bapanas) has conducted rapid tests across the country, with the Competent Regional Food Safety Authority (OKKPD) examining the produce. Results indicate that the grapes currently in circulation meet food safety standards.
“According to rapid test results by OKKP, the Muscat grapes on the market are safe for consumption, as all tested samples are within safe limits,” stated Yusra Egayanti, Acting Deputy for Consumption Diversification and Food Safety at Bapanas. Tests were carried out at almost 100 points across various districts and cities, showing 90% negative results for harmful substances, with the remaining samples testing positive but still within safe limits.
Over Pesticide Residue, Indonesia Investigate Shine Muscat Grapes from China
Further tests are being conducted in laboratories to confirm the initial findings. Following reports of pesticide residue on Shine Muscat grapes in Thailand, Bapanas Head Arief Prasetyo Adi has instructed stronger oversight of fresh food safety in Indonesia.
“Under our head’s directive, we are intensifying safety checks on fresh food products distributed in the market through sampling and periodic laboratory tests,” Yusra added.
(Becky)
