Durian Dilemma: Tons Ordered to Be Destroyed: Authorities in Uttaradit Province have destroyed over three tonnes of unripe durians intended for export to China after an inspection revealed they did not meet quality standards. The batch, purchased for over 300,000 baht, had starch levels below the required 32%. The packing plant owner and workers were briefed on maintaining quality standards. A special task force has been established to prevent such issues in the future, ensuring only properly matured durians are exported.

I'm impressed that food inspectors are being stringent on the need to maintain quality in exported produce. It is vital in ensuring that overseas buyers have continued confidence in their large-scale purchases.

 

Last week, from a local UK Asian market, I bought an unfamiliar brand of imported Thai Hom Mali rice marked as five star. It turned out to be the best steamed rice in every respect that I have eaten in my lifetime including in Thailand.