The Beijing Chaoyang District Department of Industry and Commerce has closed an illegal detergent maker, but 54 tons of cancer-causing detergents are said to have already been supplied to more than 300 restaurants and hotels, including some five-star venues, in Beijing.

Local media report that the detergent was made of SLESN70, a kind of chemical material with strong acid properties, which, when used to clean cooking utensils ,will cause ulcers in the stomach and digestive system and even esophageal cancer. The result is more serious when it is used to wash fruit and vegetables.

The Chaoyang Department of Industry and Commerce has discovered invoices in the site showing the detergent has been sold the some five-star hotels in Beijing, including the Beijing International Hotel.

The Department is now deciding how to punish the still-unnamed illegal producer. In addition, all the hotels and resturants affected have been notified and have been asked to take corrective measures.