(Fonterra's CEO)

August 5^th, Fonterra's chief executive Theo Spierings apologized at a press conference in Beijing for its milk powder scare.

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Previously, Fonterra Company found some of its products had been contaminated by bacteria, which could cause food poisoning or even death. And the contaminated whey protein concentrate has been sold to China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and Saudi Arabia. According to Fonterra, the whey protein concentrate will be used in dairy products from infant milk powder to sports drinks.

As China is one of Fonterra's largest markets in the world, Theo Spierings rushed to China to reassure Chinese customers. At today's press conference, Fonterra's CEO Theo Spierings apologized for the food-safety issue. He said the contaminated whey protein, which was related to the botulism concerns, would be under control with 48 hours.  

Fonterra's chief executive Theo Spierings said: "We really regret the distress and anxiety which this issue could have caused. We totally understand there is concern by parents and other consumers around the world. Parents have the right to know that infant nutrition and other dairy products are harmless and safe."

"We've been working closely with the companies to identify where the products are and what actions need to be taken. All products have been located and we are working with local authorities, more detailed information will come out very soon."

"We've confirmed with the beverage clients that the bacteria cannot survive the heated treatment in their production process. Those company's products are clear"

He claims 90% of its products that contain contaminated whey protein have been located. Another 10% of the whey protein exports will be recalled in the next 24-48 hours.

Theo Spierings explained why the contamination problem happened to the company's pipe. He said it was because the pipe hadn't been cleaned sufficiently. Now, the company has destroyed the pipe. So far, no reports of illness linked to the food-safety issue are confirmed yet.