China outlines measures to ensure food safety

Chinese authorities on Thursday unveiled a package of measures to ensure food safety in 2014, as the more affluent public shows greater care in what they eat.

The measures drawn up by the executive office of the food safety commission under the State Council, China's Cabinet, range from legislation amendments to measures against violations of food safety.

The office called for more rigorous checks, in particular during holidays like New Year and Spring Festival, to prevent major food safety incidents next year.

It urged amendment to the Food Safety Law and other regulations to cover new situations. Management of key products, including infant formula, meat and oil, will be upgraded.

Coordinated effort must be made among departments and regions while food safety awareness is boosted among the public through publicity campaigns.