In a troubling incident in Kunming, Yunnan Province, investigations have revealed that Yunzi Changfeng Middle School served spoiled pork to its students, resulting in significant backlash from parents and the public on social media. In response, local government authorities launched a joint investigation that identified serious lapses in food safety management at the school’s canteen, operated by Yunnan Runsheng Property Services Co. The findings indicated that the pork slices provided were not only stale and smelly but also showed signs of spoilage due to a lack of proper transportation and storage conditions.

The investigation disclosed that the pork was not stored adequately after being processed. It had been packed in double-layered plastic bags and left unrefrigerated for several hours, leading to bacterial growth and substandard food quality, as indicated by tests showing elevated levels of volatile basic nitrogen. Despite the pork originating from reputable sources with necessary quarantine and quality certifications, the mishandling during transport resulted in serious food safety issues.

Additionally, concerns were raised over the accuracy of information regarding imported frozen beef, which had a dubious label that alarmed parents. Authorities clarified that what appeared to be an expiration date was actually the registration number of the production company, affording the batch a valid shelf life of two years from the production date in May 2024.

The district’s education bureau and market supervision bureau faced scrutiny for their inadequate oversight of food safety regulations at the school. Following the findings, sanctions were imposed, including the removal of the school principal and legal representative, alongside significant fines against the school and its contractor. The contractor was found to be operating outside of its legally permitted activities, leading to substantial penalties and a halt on its operations.

To prevent similar incidents in the future, local education authorities and market supervision teams have initiated a province-wide inspection program focused on enhancing food safety protocols in schools, with a goal to bolster the management practices of both in-house and contracted food providers.