A precautionary recall of soybean oil products in Taiwan has expanded significantly, now encompassing more than 400 items.
The action follows the detection of excessive levels of benzo[a]pyrene, a known carcinogenic compound, in a batch supplied by Taichung-based Central Union Oil.
The widening scope of the recall underscores the severity of the contamination issue.
Authorities have moved quickly to remove affected goods from the market to protect public health.
The incident has triggered a political row, with officials facing pressure to explain how the tainted oil entered the supply chain and to ensure that all contaminated batches are identified and withdrawn.
Central Union Oil, a major player in the region's edible oil market, is at the center of the controversy.