Government suspends import of fruits, vegetables from Kanto Region in Japan

Radioactive contaminants have been detected in another two samples of vegetables.

According to the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority, the contaminated samples were imported from the prefectures of Kanagawa and Tokyo.

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare also reported the detection of high radioactivity levels in some vegetables from Saitama.

In a statement, AVA reported that they will extend its suspension on the imports of fruits and vegetables to include the prefectures of Kanagawa, Tokyo and Saitama. This means the entire Kanto Region in Japan is now suspended from exporting fruits and vegetables to Singapore.

AVA had earlier suspended the Kanto prefectures of Ibaraki, Tochigi, Gunma and Chiba.

As of 26 March 2011, exporting of milk, milk products, seafood, meat, fruits and vegetables from Fukushima, Ibaraki, Tochigi and Gunma are suspended. Exporting of fruits and vegetables from Ehime, Chiba, Kanagawa, Tokyo and Saitama are suspended.

AVA reported that consumers should not be alarmed. According to AVA, food imported from Japan that is available in the market is safe for consumption. There is no cause for concern for consumers as the affected consignments have not been released for sale under their "hold-and-test" surveillance programme.