FDA to test Chinese imports with milk

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Milk-containing Chinese imports will be held at the border until tests prove they aren't contaminated, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said.

The FDA said Thursday it issued the alert because of concerns that Chinese products such as candy snacks and cereal may be contaminated with the toxic chemical melamine, The New York Times reported.

"We're taking this action because it's the right thing to do for the public health," said Dr. Steven Solomon, an FDA deputy associate commissioner.

Since September, more than 50,000 babies in China have become ill because they drank tainted formula. At least four died.

Since then, Chinese officials have found melamine in a variety of products, including milk, eggs and fish feed.

U.S. companies have recalled several products, including non-dairy creamer and a type of candy -- which are mainly sold in Asian markets -- because of melamine concerns, the Times said.