Chinese food authorities warned netizens against consuming potentially hazardous products disguised under famous brands such as Nestle and Knorr.

Earlier this week, around 50 factories were reportedly producing artificial sauces and flavorings with illegal ingredients such as artificial coloring, food additives, and industry salt in China's Tianjing City.

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"Industrial salt is considered dangerous," Liu Shaowei, a food safety regulator, told the Global Times. "It contains hazardous chemicals like nitrite - a carcinogen - and heavy metals, which harm the liver and kidney."

Factories also reportedly mixed spices and herbs that had already been used including star anise and pepper from neighboring factories, the AOL reported. These ingredients are dried and ground into powder. Furthermore, production of the fake seasoning and sauces are allegedly done on scruffy areas.

The Telegraph noted that it is still not clear if such products are being exported outside the country. However, officials believe that lower-level wholesalers are selling the products on small supermarkets and restaurants in the country.

So far, at least seven suspects have been arrested and detained for their alleged involvement on the factories. The Tianjin local government has also deployed a team of 180 personnel to probe the issue.

Earlier this week, at least six factories were also raided in the region, one of which reportedly produced vinegar unfit for human consumption.

Ji Guoqiang, Jinghai district secretary, has earlier said that the local government will also conduct investigations about the issue and severely punish if any official is found to be associated with the scandal.

TagsCounterfeit seasoning, Nestle, Knorr, fake spices, China Factory