Food wholesalers, retailers and importers have agreed to suspend the import and sale of oilfish, the Food Safety Centre says, adding the catering industry will also stop serving oilfish.

Speaking to the media this afternoon, the centre's Principal Medical Officer Dr Tina Mok said the centre met the trade representatives to look for ways to restore consumers' confidence in fish products.

Dr Mok said the trade's response was constructive, adding they have agreed to verify the stock of cod fish they have before selling them and will dispose of any oilfish stocks.

Unlike food poisoning

When asked why the Government did not ban the sale of oilfish outright, she said the incident is unlike food-poisoning cases. Only some people have a reaction after eating the fish.

The centre has considered the measures overseas countries have taken against oilfish, Dr Mok said, adding most overseas countries issued advice to consumers and the trade, reminding them of the possible problems.

"So far, as far as we know, only two countries ban the import of oilfish," she added.

When asked whether the centre will prosecute  PARKnSHOP for improper food labelling, Dr Mok said the investigations are still underway. If there is sufficient evidence, appropriate actions will be taken.

So far the centre has received over 100 complaints and enquiries concerning the consumption of oilfish.

The public can call 2868 0000 for enquiries and complaints concerning oilfish.