April 11, 2008

China approves 989 livestock, poultry suppliers for Olympics in Qingdao

Chinese authorities has approved 173 agricultural bases, 989 livestock and poultry farms and 74 aquaculture sites in Qingdao, the venue for Olympic sailing competition.

Jiang Jing, deputy secretary-general of Qingdao Sailing Committee, said the food project for the Olympics guarantees food safety for the event and treats sailors and tourists to diverse cuisine.

The city government began preparation and adopted a series of measures in 2004 to ensure food quality.

Local farmers have been urged to adopt new farming techniques, develop organic agriculture and use advanced testing for pesticide residue, heavy metals and microbes.

Qingdao city government has invested RMB59 million (US$8.4 million) in food inspection equipment and designated eight inspection institutions to control food quality.

Chinese authorities have been clamping down on illegal food producers and 2,700 have been put out of business since 2004.