Government released today (June 4) the analysis result of 21 samples of Red Bull products obtained from local retail outlets since May 27, 2009, and those sent in by traders since yesterday. Attached please find the analysis result.
A sample of "Red Bull Simply Cola" originating in the United Kingdom was found to contain traces of cocaine at the level of 0.3 micrograms per litre. Upon government advice, the few retail outlets concerned have withdrawn the products since last week.
Three samples of "Red Bull Energy Drink" originating in Austria were found to contain traces of cocaine in the range of 0.1-0.2 micrograms per litre. In another two samples of this product, no cocaine was detected.
One sample of "Red Bull Sugarfree" originating in Austria was found to contain traces of cocaine at the level of 0.2 micrograms per litre. In another three samples of the product, no cocaine was detected.
The Hong Kong office of Red Bull GmbH, the distributor in Hong Kong of these two products ("Red Bull Energy Drink" and "Red Bull Sugarfree"), today sent in product batch information and will arrange samples for testing in order to shed light on whether the existence of traces of cocaine in some samples is a systemic issue or whether it relates to any particular lot or serial number.
On the other hand, analysis of six samples of "Red Bull Energy Drink" originating in Thailand and five samples of "Red Bull Energy Drink" originating in Vietnam did not detect any cocaine. The two respective importers of these products were informed of the result.
Government would remind manufacturers and traders that it is their responsibility to ensure that their products are free from dangerous drugs. The law enforcement agencies will continue to monitor Red Bull products in the market and may arrange further testing as necessary.
The Hong Kong Police are distributing an advisory notice to retailers and eateries starting today to remind those which are still selling Red Bull products from Austria and the United Kingdom to stop doing so now as a matter of precaution, since some of the samples from the two countries were found to contain traces of cocaine. They may consider returning the products to their suppliers. Traders who continue to deal in any products containing dangerous drugs might be liable to prosecution.
As cocaine is a dangerous drug, consumers are advised not to buy or consume Red Bull products from Austria and the United Kingdom for the time being.
Attachment:
Reprinted from HKSAR Government:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200906/04/P200906040306.htm