Hong Kong Soda Urine Scandal has caused widespread outrage after a 63-year-old retired man admitted to contaminating carbonated drinks with urine and placing them on supermarket shelves across the city for more than a year. The disturbing case has reignited serious concerns about food safety and public health in Hong Kong.
According to reports from the South China Morning Post, the suspect, identified as Lo Kim-Ngai, confessed to deliberately tampering with bottles of cola and other soft drinks before returning them to store refrigerators and shelves.
Incident Spanned More Than a Year
Investigators revealed that the acts took place between July 21, 2024, and August 6, 2025. During this period, Lo allegedly mixed his urine into sealed carbonated beverages and placed them in branches of major supermarket chains, including Wellcome and ParknShop.
Authorities confirmed that at least five different supermarket locations were affected. The contaminated drinks went unnoticed until consumers began reporting unusual tastes and odors.
Case Exposed After Child Falls Ill
The scandal came to light when a 9-year-old child became ill after drinking a bottle of cola purchased from a local store in July 2025. The child was hospitalized as a precaution, though officials later stated that no permanent health damage was found and the child was discharged the same day.
Following the incident, police reviewed surveillance footage and traced the suspect to Sham Shui Po, where he lived alone. A search of his home uncovered clothing and a backpack believed to have been used during the acts.
Suspect Cites Depression in Court
During court proceedings, Lo Kim-Ngai admitted to the charges and claimed his actions were meant as a “joke.” He told the court that he fell into depression following his divorce and retirement, stating that anger toward supermarket staff motivated his behavior.
His defense lawyer added that Lo became socially isolated after his former wife and son moved abroad and cut off contact with him, contributing to his mental decline.
Facing Up to Three Years in Prison
Lo Kim-Ngai formally pleaded guilty to the charge of using a harmful substance with intent to cause harm, an offense under Hong Kong law that carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison.
The court postponed the final hearing due to an ongoing police investigation. His request for bail was denied, meaning he remains in custody while the case continues.
Public Health Concerns Resurface
The Hong Kong Soda Urine Scandal has sparked renewed debate over food safety standards and supermarket security measures. Authorities urged consumers to immediately report any beverage that tastes or smells unusual.
Officials emphasized that while such incidents are rare, public vigilance plays a crucial role in preventing harm and ensuring accountability.
A Case That Left the Public Horrified
Public reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, with many residents expressing shock that such acts could go undetected for so long. The case stands as one of the most disturbing food contamination scandals in recent Hong Kong history.
As the legal process continues, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of strict food safety oversight and mental health awareness.
