In a recent disclosure on a radio program, Jay Liu, the fourth-generation proprietor of Liu Ma Kee, acknowledged sourcing raw materials from a mainland Chinese factory. This revelation comes after heightened scrutiny from authorities enforcing updated sewage regulations three decades ago, prompting the brand to shift production across the border.
Established in 1905 and formerly celebrated by the Tourism Board for its Hong Kong-origin fermented tofu, Liu Ma Kee announced its closure last Thursday following the Centre for Food Safety’s announcement of failed bacteria tests.
Speaking to reporters post-broadcast, Liu clarified in Cantonese, “We never concealed the origin… we never claimed to be Hong Kong-made.” He emphasized that customers visiting their store could witness the tofu production process, including the stir-frying of bean curd.
Responding to queries about customer clarification regarding non-local raw materials, Liu questioned the necessity post-closure, declining specifics on the mainland factory or tofu sourcing over the past three decades.
This disclosure follows the Centre for Food Safety’s Saturday press conference confirming Liu’s utilization of mainland-supplied tofu for Hong Kong packaging and seasoning operations.
The ongoing saga began with Liu’s mother lamenting the Centre’s inspections on TVB, asserting that the brand’s reputation suffered after reports of bacterial excess in tofu samples. Subsequently, a second test highlighted even higher bacteria levels, prompting Liu and his mother to challenge the accuracy of the Centre’s narratives, asserting the non-sale and supervised production of the affected batch.
In response, the Centre for Food Safety clarified operational protocols, refuting claims of instructing Liu Ma Kee on fermented tofu production while reinforcing hygiene standards education post-inspection.
Contrary to earlier implications linking closure to safety checks, Liu expressed regret on Monday, offering multiple apologies to the Centre for Food Safety and disassociating the brand’s shutdown from regulatory findings.