The chain restaurant Sushi Express addressed food safety concerns on Wednesday after reports alleged it had used "pre-made sushi rice" that was left unrefrigerated for over 16 hours in storage containers.
In a statement released on the company's social media platform, the company stated that all thermal containers carrying sushi rice are sealed with special labels to ensure they remain unopened and uncontaminated throughout delivery.
It also emphasized that it regularly commissions third-party laboratories to conduct random tests on sushi rice samples, which have all met standards for both pH levels and microbiological safety.
The sushi chain explained that it uses centralized production facilities, where sushi rice is uniformly prepared and treated with food-grade vinegar to maintain a pH below 4.6, a level that effectively inhibits bacterial growth.
Meanwhile, the sushi chain explained that it uses centralized production facilities, where sushi rice is uniformly prepared and treated with vinegar to maintain a pH below 4.6, a level that effectively inhibits bacterial growth.
The company conducts weekly pH testing on sushi rice to verify that acidity levels meet established food safety standards, it added.
Sushi Express reiterated that food safety remains its top priority, acknowledging public expectations and taking seriously the concerns raised by all sectors.
It further pledged to continue upholding strict hygiene standards while delivering safe, high-quality products to customers.
(Judy Cui)
