The Hong Kong government on Sunday (25//2023) confirmed that the supply of salt in Hong Kong remained stable and the stock was sufficient for local consumption for about one month. The government advised the public not to worry about supplies and not to hoard salt.
This confirmation was conveyed by the Government because of news reports about a surge in salt purchases among the people. “Probably, it was triggered by rumors that iodized salt can help humans fight radiation. Some people's concern about shortages is thought to be the reason why salt shelves are empty in some supermarkets," the official Hong Kong government website said.
The Center for Food Safety points out that there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that consuming iodine-rich foods and iodized salt can prevent physical harm from radiation. The public is also reminded that excessive intake of iodine or salt is dangerous, especially for people who suffer from hypertension, heart disease or kidney disease.
"The Center for Food Safety urges people to refrain from buying and eating too much salt."
According to information from the Census & Statistics Department, most of the food salt consumed in Hong Kong comes from Mainland China, Malaysia and Australia. Meanwhile, Japan's food salt market share is less than 1%. The current government's import restrictions on some products from Japan do not affect the supply of food salt in Hong Kong.
The government added that the center's staff had surveyed the retail situation. They learned from major supermarkets that some of the salt shelves had not been replenished in time for operational reasons and not because of a shortage. The retail outlet has decided to replenish their stock as soon as possible.
The government also reminds the public to remain calm and rational and be wary of fake news circulating.
