零容忍(ling rongren): Zero tolerance

At a national teleconference on food safety on Thursday, Premier Li Keqiang said food safety has a direct bearing on the health and safety of all people and is a basic requirement of a moderately prosperous society. He called for full implementation of the revamped Food Safety Law and pledged "zero tolerance" for food safety crimes.

In recent years there have been frequent food safety scandals, triggering wide public concern in the country. Food safety administrators have been urged to establish an effective risk management system, including a food tracking system covering the whole food production process, distribution and sales. Food safety should be based on the principle of prevention first and timely information disclosure. Meanwhile, local governments should assume responsibility for food quality and the whole of society is encouraged to supervise and guarantee food safety. The fundamental role of the law in protecting consumers' safety and interests should also be upheld.

China's top legislature on April 24 adopted an amendment to the Food Safety Law that stipulates the heaviest penalties yet for offenders. It will take effect on Oct 1, which will hopefully deter food safety crimes.