Controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile4 entries
2021
Group general manager Gao Zhenkun under disciplinary review and supervisory investigation
In February 2021, the Beijing Municipal Commission for Discipline Inspection and Supervision announced that Gao Zhenkun, general manager of Beijing Tongrentang Group, was suspected of serious violations of discipline and law and was subject to disciplinary review and supervisory investigation. The announcement did not disclose a specific criminal finding or court judgment.
2019
Withdrawal of China Quality Award recognition
Authorities withdrew Tong Ren Tang’s China Quality Award recognition after the honey controversy. The action increased reputational pressure on the group and underscored the importance of supplier controls, food-safety governance, and accountability across affiliated entities.
2018
Fined over 14.08 million yuan over commissioned honey production incident
At the end of 2018, Tongrentang Bee Industry's commissioned honey production involved issues such as recycled honey and altered production dates. In February 2019, handling results were announced: the companies involved were fined a total of over 14.08 million yuan, related products were recalled, and 14 relevant responsible persons were held accountable. The specific entities involved were the bee industry company and the commissioned manufacturer.
2013
Mercury content and recall controversy over some Tongrentang Chinese patent medicines in Hong Kong
In May 2013, the Hong Kong Department of Health found that a batch of Tongrentang Jian Ti Wu Bu Wan exceeded the local mercury limit and ordered a recall. Tongrentang Technology confirmed it was commissioned to process the batch but said factory release, retained sample and submitted test results met standards; the Hong Kong Department of Health subsequently told Caixin that the recall was still ongoing. This entry is limited to that batch and testing controversy and does not presume all Tongrentang products were non-compliant.