Ministry of Health responds to voter concerns regarding food safety control for fresh produce
The Ministry of Health clarifies management responsibilities and food safety monitoring measures for produce following voter concerns regarding product quality.
Addressing concerns from voters in Vinh Long province regarding why some vegetables and fruits remain fresh for 2-3 days while others perish quickly, the Ministry of Health has issued an official response following the first session of the 16th National Assembly.
The Ministry emphasized that under Article 63 of the Food Safety Law, state management responsibilities for vegetables, tubers, and fruits fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Management is currently executed through the Food Safety Law, Decree 15/2018/ND-CP, and relevant implementation guidelines.
Per regulations, all food production and business entities must ensure safety throughout the entire process from production and processing to distribution. Entities are strictly prohibited from using unauthorized additives or chemicals, or using them beyond permitted levels that may jeopardize consumer health.
Over the past period, the Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance, risk assessment, and inter-agency coordination regarding inspections and post-market oversight. The Ministry is leading efforts to refine the legal framework and research amendments to the Food Safety Law to enhance management effectiveness and risk control from production to consumption.
Regarding the proposal to establish a public system for listing violating facilities, the Ministry stated that Government Resolution 184 dated July 9, 2026, has laid the foundation for a unified food safety information system. This system will digitize supply chain management, support traceability, and allow citizens to access information on violations transparently.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health continues to bolster communication efforts, warning of non-compliant products through the Vietnam Food Administration and the media, while guiding consumers on how to select products with clear origins to ensure safety.