The suspension announced Saturday turns the tables on critics who have questioned the safety of Chinese exports, The Washington Post reported Sunday.

The suspension affected some of the largest U.S. food companies, including Cargill Meat Solutions and Tyson Foods, the world's largest meat processor, The Post reported. Tyson's frozen poultry products were contaminated with salmonella and Cargill's frozen pork ribs contained an additive designed to keep animals lean, said Chinese food officials.

China recently has rejected other U.S. products, including health supplements and dried fruits. The rejections raise concern that what started as a seemingly isolated investigation in March over contaminated pet food from China has sparked a broader trade skirmish.

"I think there is a bit of a balancing act," said Doug Powell, head of the International Food Safety Network. "They are trying to keep their own people happy in light of the food problems they have had at home."