Investigation into Adulterated Sunflower Oil

A preliminary investigation into the circumstances under which a batch of sunflower oil blended with mineral oil was imported in Greece has been ordered by Athens First Instance Prosecutor Panagiotis Poulios. The Prosecutor will examine how the Ukrainian sunflower oil was imported in Greece and whether public health was under threat and the Food Code was violated. In the meantime, intensive inspections are underway to locate more quantities of the health-hazardous sunflower oil. Most batches have been confiscated, said the Government. Socialist section head for development Mihalis Chrysohoidis blasted the Government for slow response. "The new food scare that broke out in Greece proves the inefficiency of the inspection authorities and the Government’s responsibility, whose silence has prompted several questions over the dimensions of the crisis," said Chrysohoidis.

The Greek General State Chemical Laboratory will release as report as to whether the adulterated sunflower oil, withdrawn from the market is dangerous. Meanwhile, checks in the market continues. As per the Development Ministry 2/3 of the controversial consignment has been withdrawn. In addition to the bottles with the controversial sunflower oil, other products are being checked as well. In reply to criticism by the opposition on deficient protection of the consumers, the government has assured that any imperfection on the check system will be recorded and responsibilities held.