Four Shanghai-based baby formula producers, including French food giant Danone's local unit Dumex, were among 82 Chinese mainland formula companies granted three-year license renewals by China's food safety watchdog.
The licenses are the first since China adopted tougher industry standards about six months ago after a series of food quality scandals rocked the sector and caused a public outcry.
The other three Shanghai companies gaining licenses were Chenguan, Huaguan and Niubeizi. Their products are mainly sold in second-tier cities in China.
Nationwide, 51 producers failed to renew their licenses or applied to delay reapplications, the State Food and Drug Administration said.
Under revised regulations promulgated last December, inspectors have been carrying out quality checks on baby formula production. The changes raised standards in nine areas, from purchase of raw materials to processing and testing.
Infant formula producers now also need to register product formula, packaging and labeling with provincial food and drug administrations.
Most local baby formula producers have had to invest to upgrade equipment and processes to meet the new licensing norms.
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