Image Credit: Global Times
Authorities in Huadu district, Guangzhou, South China’s Guangdong Province, confirmed on Wednesday that the investigation into the Meisun mooncake brand, recently embroiled in allegations of false origin and misleading advertising, has revealed no significant food safety issues. The local market supervision administration conducted three inspections of Meisun products, all of which passed regulatory safety standards.
The investigation clarified that Hong Kong Meicheng Food Group, the owner of the Meisun trademark, had correctly authorised Guangzhou Meicheng Food Co to use the trademark through appropriate registration. Additionally, Guangzhou Meicheng Technology Co, which processes Meisun mooncakes, operates with a valid business licence and food production permit. The company’s quality management system and production practices were found to meet regulatory requirements, and no illegal activities have been uncovered.
The controversy surrounding Meisun began when Chinese influencer Zhang Qingyang, known online as Crazy Xiaoyangge, promoted the mooncakes as premium products from Hong Kong during his livestreams. This led to backlash after it was disclosed that the brand does not have physical stores or production facilities in Hong Kong. Zhang’s company, Three Sheep Network, is now under investigation in Hefei, Anhui Province, for allegedly misleading consumers through livestream promotions on Douyin, the Chinese equivalent of TikTok.
Huadu district market regulators have sought cooperation from their Hefei counterparts to further investigate the issue. They are also examining the collaboration between Guangzhou Meicheng Food Co and the livestreaming platforms concerned. Authorities have indicated plans to enhance oversight and compliance guidance for these companies.
As of the latest updates, some officially authorised livestreaming channels of Three Sheep Network have resumed broadcasting, while other accounts remain suspended following their silence on Tuesday evening.