Approximately 350 tonnes of bean sprouts have already been distributed to the market.
The two facilities operated by Luu Van Ve, 56, from Bac Cuong Ward, and Ta Van Hai, 54, from Van Hoa Commune, were uncovered on May 23 in Lao Cai City. Both were found to be using the banned chemical 6-Benzylaminopurine (6-BAP) in their production processes.
6-Benzylaminopurine used in the bean sprout production in Lao Cai (photo by Lao Cai police)
At Ve’s residence, police found 271 containers, each holding about 15 litres, containing roughly 2.5 tonnes of bean sprouts. At Hai’s home, they discovered 602 containers, including 313 that held around 4.1 tonnes of five-day-old, ready-to-sell sprouts.
Several chemical solutions and related production items were also confiscated.
The suspects admitted to soaking the bean sprouts in 6-BAP mixed with lime water to enhance their appearance, prevent root growth, and increase yield.
Around a total of 350 tonnes made by the two bean sprout production facilities in Lao Cai sold in the market (Photo by the Lao Cai police)
According to police, the tainted sprouts were sold at local markets and vegetable shops across Lao Cai and neighbouring provinces.
Ve’s facility had sold around 180 tonnes of bean sprouts since May 2024, while Hai’s had distributed about 168 tonnes. Both operations used banned chemicals.
Police warned that 6-BAP poses serious health risks to consumers, including liver, kidney and lung damage, and can be fatal with prolonged exposure.
