Food security has become that little bit safer in Chancheng district, Foshan, thanks to the use of the latest technology.

An intelligent supervision model was introduced in 2016 to create a more effective regulation of system for food security, using the internet and big data.

Electronic scales were made mandatory for all vendors of agricultural products in trade markets in the district. Additionally, QR codes were added to items, allowing consumers to find out information of the products' origins and testing.

Chancheng district in Foshan initiates a new high-tech food safety system to improve food security. [Photo by Dai Jiaxin/Nanfang Daily]

Big data has been applied to analyze statistics from companies in the food sector, awarding well-run companies and even shutting down those which continually break the rules.

"Transparent kitchens" has also been promoted, with cameras installed to monitor food preparations.

A mobile food testing network has been established, providing speedy and efficient testing of foods from restaurants, school canteens, and supermarkets.

A staff member analyzes a sample of agricultural products at a testing center in Chancheng district. [Photo by Dai Jiaxin/Nanfang Daily]

Officials at the local food supervision and administration authority are now able to check the testing results of products from food markets via a mobile app.

The new system has increased the amount of testing for food safety in the district, ensuring safer and better quality food for consumers. In the year of 2016, the district has tested about 1,460 batches of food and has handled some 5,000-kg unqualified vegetables.