China NMPA Drug Inspection - Hainan Shounanshan Ginseng Industry Co., Ltd. - dodder

This document, an announcement from China's State Administration for Market Regulation (NMPA) dated February 23, 2017, detailed findings of substandard traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) decoction pieces. Investigations by the Guangdong Provincial Institute for Drug Control identified 23 batches of unqualified Cuscuta chinensis (Dodder Seed), including its salted form, produced by 22 companies. Prominent among these was Hainan Shounanshan Ginseng Industry Co., Ltd. The primary violations involved failures to meet quality standards outlined in the *Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China* (2010 and 2015 Editions). Specific deficiencies were noted in product appearance, identification tests (including microscopic characteristics and thin-layer chromatography), content determination, and impurities such as acid-insoluble ash and total ash. Following these findings, provincial food and drug administrations initiated control measures, including product sealing and seizure. The affected companies were mandated to cease sales, recall products, and implement rectifications. Operating under the *Drug Administration Law of the People's Republic of China* (Articles 73, 74, 75), local authorities were directed to investigate the illegal production and sale, issue penalty decisions within one month, and report outcomes to the NMPA for public disclosure. Provisions were also made for companies to dispute product authenticity, triggering further investigation and potential severe penalties if culpability was confirmed.