A popular tea brand, Unilever’s product Lipton has failed to pass safety standards set by China. About 20 brands have failed to pass the safety standards of China as they were found to be carrying earth particles.

An investigation was conducted over 58 brands out of them 20 failed to meet with the standards of China. The investigation was carried out by General Administration of Quality Supervision. The products of Unilever have been destroyed by the authorities.

Unilever has affirmed that the products were below the safety standard of China. A spokesperson of Unilever said, “Under the supervision and guidance of related quality watchdog, we will actively improve quality management”.

The alien substance found in the products is said to be earth particles which are found near wind turbines. Lipton has about 12 different products in the markets of China. It is one of the most favored tea products in the country. The report of contamination might have some affect over its sale.

In the past few months, China has raised finger over many international brands. Recently, it criticized Johnson & Johnson for using cancer causing chemical in its product. Last month, China slapped Wal-Mart Stores with a fine of
2.7 million Yuan for selling ordinary pork under the label of organic pork.

The fine by China is considered as the most severe punishment given to any firm. It is yet to be seen what step will be taken by authorities against the brands. It has been reported that five tea products Mingfeng, Jiaranlu, Zhengxiangyuan, Cuiming and Shenxin violated the safety standards of China.

The authorities pointed out that Zhengxiangyuan had poor flavor. The brands have been asked to keep a tab over the level of earth products and flavor. As high level of flavor could damage bone and cause other health problems.