Supamaas Orders Consumer Protection Committee to Team Up with FDA to Investigate 'Tissue Dumpling' Case in Khon Kaen, Urges Contact with Affected Consumer
A consumer in Khon Kaen found tissue paper mixed into fish sausage, prompting authorities to launch an investigation and coordinate between consumer protection and food safety agencies to identify the vendor and contact the complainant.
On May 15, 2569, at Government House, Ms. Supamaas Israphakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and overseer of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), revealed progress in investigating a consumer complaint from Khon Kaen province who found tissue paper mixed into fish sausage purchased from a shop near Bueng Kaen Nakhon. The incident sparked widespread criticism on social media. Ms. Supamaas stated that food safety and consumer protection align with government and prime ministerial directives emphasizing inter-agency coordination. Upon learning of the incident, she immediately ordered the OCPB to dispatch a team to the area and continuously attempt to contact the affected consumer, though contact has not yet been established.
Meanwhile, officials surveyed the Bueng Kaen Nakhon area and identified approximately 15-20 fried dumpling vendors and 5-7 steamed dumpling shops, totaling nearly 30 vendors. Random purchases were made for inspection, but no cases matching the reported incident were found. Officials have been ordered to urgently contact the affected consumer to establish facts and gather evidence promptly.
Ms. Supamaas noted that food is regulated by the FDA under the Food Act B.E. 2522, which covers adulterated food and ensures safe, hygienic production. While hygiene and cleanliness standards fall outside the OCPB's direct authority under Section 21 of the Consumer Protection Act B.E. 2522, she ordered close coordination between the OCPB and FDA for thorough and swift inspection.
Affected consumers can file complaints and seek civil compensation through the OCPB, which has prepared to receive complaints and provide legal advice. Ms. Supamaas urged all food business operators to prioritize cleanliness and safety in all production and sales stages, as food affects public health and safety. Violations will be prosecuted strictly.
Consumers are advised to observe shop cleanliness before purchasing, choose vendors maintaining good hygiene, and if finding anything unusual in food, preserve it as evidence, photograph it, and report immediately to authorities. The OCPB and FDA stand ready to support consumers. For unsafe or unsanitary food reports, contact the FDA hotline at 1556. For complaints about compensation, contact the OCPB hotline at 1166, the OCPB Connect app, the website ocpb.go.th, or provincial ombudsman offices.
