August 31, 2020

Only locally sourced meat at Taiwan's schools despite move to end import ban of US meat

Taiwan will only allow locally sourced pork and beef to be served at schools in the country, said its Ministry of Education (MOE).

This is despite Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's announcement on August 28 of the end of an import ban on meat products from the United States.

The lifting of the ban would happen on  January 1 next year and covers meat from cattle older than 30 months and pork containing residues of ractopamine, a leanness drug administered to animals. Tsai siad the decision was supported by scientific studies and fulfilled international standards.

The move is expected to increase the likelihood of a trade agreement with the US. However, it risks upsetting Taiwain's hog farming industry.

In a news release, the MOE emphasised that the School Hygiene Act prioritised the use of local food products in school meals. Genetically modified foods were also banned from school menus, CNA reported.

- Taiwan News