The Hong Kong Health, Welfare & Food Bureau said Thursday it is studying different models of food safety regulatory systems overseas to see which is best for Hong Kong.

It is more appropriate that food safety regulatory functions be performed by a government department than an independent statutory body, the bureau said.

The statutory duties include taking enforcement action, conducting government-to-government negotiations on temporary suspension of food imports in response safety concerns, and Hong Kong's participation in international organizations requiring government representation such as the Codex Alimentarius Commission.

Food safety functions are performed by government agencies overseas, the bureau said, citing that in the US, the Center for Food Safety & Applied Nutrition is a government agency under the US Department of Health & Human Services, and in Singapore, the Agri-food & Veterinary Authority is a government agency under the Ministry of National Development.

The bureau said it is also considering forming an advisory committee of experts from various fields to advise on local food standards and conduct research on food risks.

When details have been worked out, the Legislative Council panel on Food Safety & Environmental Hygiene will be consulted before implementation, according to the bureau.

Source: Xinhua