Claimed Sprayer Hygiene Inspection, but No Official Documents or Records
With 14 Investigations Underway, False Explanation Suspicions May Intensify
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has officially confirmed that there was "no inspection request" regarding the hygiene controversy involving a non-food sprayer used at a local festival by Theborn Korea, a franchise company led by CEO Baek Jongwon.
On July 4, the MFDS stated that it had never received any inspection request from Theborn Korea. An official from the MFDS said, "Contrary to Theborn Korea's explanation, we have not been asked to conduct any inspection, nor have there been any administrative procedures." The official added, "We have never issued a certificate regarding the ingredients related to the safety of the sprayer." The MFDS emphasized that, although there is no official certification system, the standards for food-contact utensils are strictly regulated by public notice, and businesses are required to comply with these standards.
Previously, CEO Baek suggested at an event held in Hongseong County, South Chungcheong Province, that apple juice be put into a commercially available sprayer intended for pesticide application and sprayed onto meat. This was carried out at the festival site. However, controversy arose after concerns were raised that the sprayer was not a food-grade device, which could potentially constitute a violation of the Food Sanitation Act.
Subsequently, CEO Baek explained the allegations by stating, "We requested an inspection from the MFDS and are in possession of the test results," asserting the safety of the practice. Theborn Korea also stated, "We received a related request from the MFDS as part of efforts to strengthen food safety." Additionally, the company repeatedly emphasized that the device was a 'sprayer,' not a pesticide container, and that it was a 'new, unused' product, insisting that there was no issue.
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