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Study Reveals Risks of Washing Raw Poultry in Southeast Asian Homes

Study Reveals Risks of Washing Raw Poultry in Southeast Asian Homes
File: This photo is used for representational purposes only. (Photo: Freepik)

A recent study sheds light on the common practice of washing raw poultry in Southeast Asian households, highlighting the increased risk of cross-contamination associated with this habit.

Conducted across eight Southeast Asian countries, the study titled “Consumers’ raw poultry washing practices: A cross-sectional and observational study in eight Southeast Asian countries” analyzed responses from 2009 participants regarding their behaviors in Laos, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

More than 45 percent of participants in the study purchased raw poultry products from traditional markets, with 96 percent of them admitting to washing them before cooking. Despite popular beliefs that washing removes impurities and ensures safety, research indicates otherwise.

Contrary to expectations, washing raw poultry does not eliminate bacteria. Instead, the process can spread microorganisms up to 70 cm, increasing the risk of contamination. Moreover, misconceptions about using ingredients like salt or lime juice for microbial reduction have been debunked, as they were found ineffective.

The findings also identified older, married, and lower-income individuals, as well as those purchasing from farms or wet markets, as being more inclined towards washing raw poultry. Additionally, various cross-contamination pathways were observed, including improper hand hygiene and contaminated kitchen surfaces.

Misconceptions abound regarding the use of ingredients like salt or lime juice to minimize microbial contamination. Research has shown that washing raw poultry with acidic solutions, such as diluted lemon, lime juice, or vinegar, is ineffective in reducing bacteria.

Additionally, participants often resort to using flour or lime during the washing or soaking process to alleviate odor. However, the study suggests that this practice is more about perception than actual safety.

Furthermore, other pathways observed during the washing procedure could contribute to contamination with foodborne diseases on various kitchen surfaces, including the sink, chopping board, kitchen cloth, and even the refrigerator door handle.

To combat the long instilled belief of washing raw poultry, the study suggested targeting safety messages and educational campaigns suited to local contexts, including using innovative communication tools regularly to induce behavioral change.

Participants from Laos and Indonesia displayed a willingness to change their habits upon understanding the risks associated with washing raw poultry.

Good hygiene practices are also advised, such as washing and sanitizing hands and kitchen equipment with soap and water after handling raw poultry.

7-Eleven’s New ‘K-Flavour Hits’: Embark on a Tasty Journey of Korean-Inspired Ready-to-Eat Delights!


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 February 2024 – Brace your taste buds for a delicious explosion of flavours as 7-Eleven transforms into your go-to convenience store for Korean food with the launch of its ‘K-Flavour Hits’ menu that’s as vibrant and exciting as any K-Pop concert! Dive into an amazing array of 7-Select Korean-inspired ready-to-eat items, including packed meals, snacks and sandwiches, starting from an incredible $2.80!

7-Eleven K-Flavour Hits

Discover authentic Korean flavours with a playful twist in the all-new and exclusive chart-topping treats, including 7-Select Army Stew Wrap, 7-Select Spicy Stir Fried Squid with Rice and the 7-Select Korean-Style Chicken Broth with Goji Berries Onigiri! With the fusion of iconic Korean favourites such as black bean noodle (Jjajangmyeon) and spicy rice cake (Tteokbokki), indulge in the irresistible 7-Select Black Bean Sauce Chicken with Egg Fried Rice (Jjajangbap) and the cheesy delight of 7-Select Cheesy Rice Cake with Ramen (Rabokki).

What’s more, this ‘K-Flavour Hits’ menu is not just a feast for your taste buds – all items, excluding the onigiri range, are halal-certified, making them perfect for breaking fast during Ramadan too!

Korean-Inspired Packed Meals That Pack a Punch of Flavour!

A new and exciting selection of Korean delights is coming your way with this enticing menu of ready-to-eat packed meals – ideal for a satisfying and delicious bite on-the-go. This is one tasty menu you won’t want to miss:

7-Select Sweet and Sour Chicken with Rice (Tangsuyuk) (RSP $5.80): Time to let your taste buds dance like your favourite K-pop stars with our 7-Select Sweet and Sour Chicken with Rice! We’re talking tasty chicken coated in a Korean-style sweet, sour, and tangy sauce – the flavourful sensation your palate has been waiting for.

7-Select Stir Fried Glass Noodle with Beef (Japchae) (RSP $5.80): Imagine bouncy sweet potato noodles with savoury beef slices! This texture-rich comfort food classic is a delightful blend of chewy and tender that’ll have you coming back for more.

7-Select Black Bean Sauce Chicken with Egg Fried Rice (Jjajangbap) (RSP $5.80): Satisfy your cravings with this savoury egg fried rice dish topped with flavourful black bean sauce – a mouth-watering pick perfect for a quick lunch or late-night supper!

7-Select Spicy Stir Fried Squid with Rice (RSP $5.80): Turn up the heat with this spicy sensation featuring tender squid, onions, and peppers in a rich, savoury sauce loaded with aromatic flavours.

7-Select Spicy Seafood Noodles (Jjampong) (RSP $5.80): This Chinese-style Korean noodle dish will cure your cravings with its red, spicy seafood broth flavoured with gochugaru (chilli powder).

7-Select Kimchi Stew and Chicken Dumpling with Rice (Kimchi Jiggae) (RSP $5.80): Get cosy with this spicy Korean stew where chicken dumplings, tofu and napa cabbage kimchi come together in a delicate hearty broth, served with a side of rice.

Super Snacks and Awesome Onigiri!
Looking for a handheld treat to power through a busy day? Look no further than this line-up of quick and tasty bites:

7-Select Chicken Bulgogi Sandwich (RSP $4.00): Elevate your lunch game to the next level with this sandwich filled with Korean BBQ-style marinated chicken in a sweet and savoury sauce.

7-Select Corn Cheese with Chicken Ham Bread Roll (RSP $3.90): Enjoy creamy corn cheese with chicken ham and savoury turkey bits, all rolled up in a soft bread roll.

7-Select Kimchi Chicken Bread Roll (RSP $3.90): Turn up the spice with this tasty sandwich, which boasts tender chicken topped with savoury, spicy, and delicious shredded kimchi.

7-Select Army Stew Wrap (RSP $3.90): Experience the comfort of the classic Army Stew in a convenient wrap form! It’s a harmonious blend of flavours, filling and comforting, wrapped up and ready to go.

7-Select Korean Style Grilled Chicken Wrap (RSP $3.90): Savoury, umami-rich soy-marinated chicken meets crunchy garlic chips in a wrap that’s tender, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying.

7-Select Seafood Pancake (Haemul Pajeon) (RSP $3.90): This popular Korean pancake is made with scallions and a medley of seafood – it’s a slice of Korean culinary delight!

7-Select Cheesy Rice Cake with Ramen (Rabokki) (RSP $4.20): This Rabokki recipe features ramen noodles and rice cakes coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, delivering a burst of flavour and cheesy goodness in every bite.

7-Select Chicken Bibimbap Onigiri (RSP $2.80): Treat yourself to this tasty onigiri packed with succulent bulgogi stir-fried chicken, savoury gochujang sauce, and veggies. It’s the ideal handheld treat for a satisfying bite while on-the-go!

7-Select Korean-Style Chicken Broth with Goji Berries Onigiri (RSP $2.80): This scrumptious snack offers a unique flavourful experience that combines the earthy warmth of chicken broth with the savoury goodness of chicken, all wrapped up in a convenient and portable rice ball.

7-Select Tuna Kimchi with Egg Furikake Onigiri (RSP $2.80): Prepare for a fusion of tantalising tastes and textures ready to ignite your taste buds. Snack in style with this tempting mix of tuna, kimchi, and egg furikake that tastes as good as it looks!

But wait, there’s more! From 21 February to 12 March 2024, you can enjoy more exciting Yuu offers: Get 7-Select Kimchi Chicken Bread Roll or 7-Select Army Stew Wrap at 200 points + $2 Top up! Any purchase of the items mentioned above except 7-Select Kimchi Chicken Bread Roll or 7-Select Army Stew Wrap will receive 3x Yuu points!

For product details, please refer to this summary table:

Product RSP
7-Select Chicken Bulgogi Sandwich $4.00
7-Select Corn Cheese with Chicken Ham Bread Roll $3.90
7-Select Kimchi Chicken Bread Roll $3.90
7-Select Chicken Bibimbap Onigiri $2.80
7-Select Korean-Style Chicken Broth with Goji Berries Onigiri $2.80
7-Select Tuna Kimchi with Egg Furikake Onigiri $2.80
7-Select Sweet and Sour Chicken with Rice (Tangsuyuk) $5.80
7-Select Stir Fried Glass Noodle with Beef (Japchae) $5.80
7-Select Black Bean Sauce Chicken with Egg Fried Rice (Jjajangbap) $5.80
7-Select Spicy Stir Fried Squid with Rice $5.80
7-Select Spicy Seafood Noodle (Jjampong) $5.80
7-Select Kimchi Stew and Chicken Dumpling with Rice (Kimchi Jiggae) $5.80
7-Select Army Stew Wrap $3.90
7-Select Korean Style Grilled Chicken Wrap $3.90
7-Select Seafood Pancake (Haemul Pajeon) $3.90
7-Select Cheesy Rice Cake with Ramen (Rabokki) $4.20

All items (except for onigiri) are halal certified. The onigiri do not contain pork or lard.

More promotions and updates can also be found on the 7-Eleven Singapore Facebook page, so stay tuned!
Hashtag: #7Eleven

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

7-Eleven Singapore

Established in Singapore in 1983, 7-Eleven has since expanded to more than 500 stores island-wide to become the leading 24-hour convenience chain store. We take pride in serving the Singapore community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 7-Eleven emphasises convenience and value by offering a wide array of quality products, food and services to satisfy the needs of its customers. Think 7-Eleven and what comes to mind are the refreshing Slurpee, 7CAFÉ as well as a wide range of quality ready meals and sandwiches under 7-SELECT. 7-Eleven is also a 24/7 one-stop destination for customers who need to access bill payment services in their own time. Our services cover payment of utilities, courier services, and even cash withdrawal.For more information, visit

Lao Authorities Issue Child Safety Alert Amid Reports of Chinese Kidnapping Attempts

Representational image: Primary school children at Phonsavath Primary School. (Photo: Aide et Action)

Concerns are mounting in Laos over child safety following reports of Chinese individuals attempting kidnappings, prompting local authorities to issue warnings and urging vigilance among teachers and parents.

The Office of Education and Sports in Houayxay district, Bokeo Province, issued a notice on 20 February to preschools, primary schools, and secondary schools, advising both the government and private sectors to protect schoolchildren. This action comes in response to an incident involving individuals from China attempting to deceive and abduct children, particularly in the area of the A3 road, Pakhaonuea village, Huayxay district in Bokeo.

According to the notice, the incident occurred on 13 February, at approximately 7:20 am, when a group of Chinese individuals involved in trafficking tried to deceive and abduct schoolchildren from Pakhanuea Primary School. The notice emphasizes collaboration among sectors to ensure student safety, urging heightened caution and advising children not to interact with unknown individuals.

“Currently, there is a group of Chinese individuals attempting to trick and kidnap school kids from Pakhanuea Primary School,” the notice stated. “To address the issue, all sectors, especially schools from both the government and private sectors, are urged to collaborate and exercise caution to ensure the safety of students.”

School teachers and officials are also urged to advise students not to “contact any unknown individuals,” emphasizing the importance of heightened awareness and protective measures within the school areas.

The incident has raised concerns among social media users nationwide, particularly due to the involvement of Chinese individuals in trafficking and the growing presence of Chinese nationals in Laos.

“The Lao government should not permit these Chinese individuals to enter Laos and should take strong action against them,” one Facebook comment reads.

On the other hand, many users urged the authorities to promptly address the issue and arrest the individuals involved to be punished according to the law. 

“Urgent action is needed beyond just notifying schools. Police and authorities should monitor Chinese individuals, set up checkpoints, and thoroughly search vehicles to arrest those suspected of wrongdoing,” another user commented, alleging that the recent incident may be involved in bigger organ trafficking ring across the region.

Siam Piwat Partners with Hyundai Department Store to Forge Global Retail Collaboration Phenomenon, Reaffirming Crowning Achievement in the Limitless Expansion of Global Ecosystem


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 February 2024 – Reinforcing its success in establishing a borderless global business ecosystem, Siam Piwat Group, Thailand’s leading real estate and retail developer, the owner and operator of Siam Paragon, Siam Center, and Siam Discovery, and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM, ICS, and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok, has recently unveiled a significant collaboration. Partnering with Hyundai Department Store, the largest department store chain developer in South Korea, both entities have joined forces by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU), aiming to elevate and revolutionize the future of retail. This collaboration seeks to perfectly synergize exceptional benefits, offering exclusive experiences and services to members of both parties. With a shared objective of cultivating and promoting new business opportunities on an international scale, the partnership is geared towards the development of world-class destination projects.

Siam Piwat Partners with Hyundai Department Store to Forge Global Retail Collaboration Phenomenon, Reaffirming Crowning Achievement in the Limitless Expansion of Global Ecosystem

Mrs. Mayuree Chaipromprasith, President – Corporate Affairs and Communications, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., remarked, “This collaboration aligns seamlessly with Siam Piwat’s business principles, which revolves around the ‘Co-create & Collaboration to Win’ strategy. We prioritize fostering a constructive ecosystem continuously by partnering with leading and robust global business entities and consolidating remarkable potential to propel business growth in innovative and boundless ways.”

Mr. Jung Jee Young, President, Hyundai Department Store, expressed, “This is the first time a Korean department store has outsourced the operation of a part of a store in a famous overseas shopping mall. With a shared commitment to excellence, we have partnered with the Siam Piwat Group, renowned for its global destination shopping centers that have long captured the hearts of tourists. Together, we aim to offer superior benefits and elevate the customer experience. This collaboration also presents a significant opportunity to break down market boundaries and showcase the potential of K-Culture, a highly popular trend in Thailand.”

The collaboration with Hyundai Department Store enables the creation of a more complete ecosystem by leveraging the strengths of both businesses towards a shared objective. This partnership enhances the overall experience for a diverse range of customers, offering exceptional benefits to members of ONESIAM and Hyundai Department Store. This collaboration aims to entice shoppers by offering diverse special privileges at shopping centers and stores as well as stores within the alliance network. It seeks to leave a lasting impression, providing customers from both parties with a unique and superior lifestyle experience.

Given the robust potential of both renowned retail enterprises, evidenced by the significant usage of their services and the substantial spending of customers, they have decided to collaborate and enhance the retail business by actively participating in presenting leading brands and exclusive items across shopping centers. Additionally, this collaboration presents an opportunity to support Thai entrepreneurs in showcasing their creative products to international markets, propelling local heroes to global prominence as well as encouraging small and medium-sized Korean brands to have the market opportunity abroad. This partnership will yield boundless success and drive the business towards sustainability.

In addition, both entities are committed to creating opportunities and fostering business growth by delivering a diverse range of new experiences and exclusives at the ‘K-Content Specialty place’, a collection of recently popular K-food, K-pop, K-webtoons, K-fashion, and more., offering a shopping experience and fulfilling the demands of modern consumers, which is to forge a new attractive magnet that caters to both Thai customers and foreign tourists, Emphasizing the importance of the Global Destination project that always won the people’s hearts.

Siam Piwat Group has successfully reinforced its Global Ecosystem by forging partnerships with world-class multinational retail giants. These include PARCO Shopping Complex in Japan, TAIPEI 101 in Taiwan; Republic of China, Hong Kong Times Square, ION Orchard Department Store in Singapore, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia and Plaza Indonesia in Indonesia, which is a diverse business group encompassing shopping centers. These strategic partnerships connect and extend extraordinary benefits to visitors and entice shoppers from retail alliance members across various countries to visit and shop at Siam Piwat Group shopping centers. Moreover, these collaborations contribute to enhancing the shopping and lifestyle experiences for both Chinese and global tourists, facilitated by platforms such as Alipay, Klook, and Trip.com. This not only promotes the tourism sector but also bolsters the Thai economy as a whole.

Hashtag: #SiamPiwat

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Vietnam, Thailand Ramp Up Efforts to Expand Visa Exemption Policies for Tourism Boost

Foreign tourists visiting Vietnam (Photo: The Star)

As Southeast Asian nations race to boost tourism recovery, countries such as Vietnam and Thailand have intensified efforts to expand their visa exemption policies to attract a greater number of visitors.

HKU Engineering researchers achieve breakthrough in quantum sensing that leads to new opportunities of applications in monitoring dynamic processes in biological systems


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 February 2024 – A collaborative project led by Professor Zhiqin Chu, Professor Can Li and Professor Ngai Wong, at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) has made a breakthrough in enhancing the speed and resolution of widefield quantum sensing, leading to new opportunities in scientific research and practical applications.

(From left) Professor Ngai Wong, Professor Can Li, Professor Zhiqin Chu and Zhiyuan Du Image Credit: The University of Hong Kong
(From left) Professor Ngai Wong, Professor Can Li, Professor Zhiqin Chu and Zhiyuan Du Image Credit: The University of Hong Kong

By collaborating with scientists from Mainland China and Germany, the team has successfully developed a groundbreaking quantum sensing technology using a neuromorphic vision sensor, which is designed to mimic the human vision system. This sensor is capable of encoding changes in fluorescence intensity into spikes during optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) measurements. The key advantage of this approach is that it results in highly compressed data volumes and reduced latency, making the system more efficient than traditional methods. This breakthrough in quantum sensing holds potential for various applications in fields such as monitoring dynamic processes in biological systems.

The research paper has been published in the journal Advanced Science titled “Widefield Diamond Quantum Sensing with Neuromorphic Vision Sensors”.

“Researchers worldwide have spent much effort looking into ways to improve the measurement accuracy and spatiotemporal resolution of camera sensors. But a fundamental challenge remains: handling the massive amount of data in the form of image frames that need to be transferred from the camera sensors for further processing. This data transfer can significantly limit the temporal resolution, which is typically no more than 100 fps due to the use of frame-based image sensors. What we did was trying to overcome the bottleneck,” said Zhiyuan Du, the first author of the paper and PhD candidate at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Du said his professor’s focus on quantum sensing had inspired him and other team members to break new ground in the area. He is also driven by a passion for integrating sensing and computing.

“The latest development provides new insights for high-precision and low-latency widefield quantum sensing, with possibilities for integration with emerging memory devices to realise more intelligent quantum sensors,” he added.

The team’s experiment with an off-the-shelf event camera demonstrated a 13× improvement in temporal resolution, with comparable precision in detecting ODMR resonance frequencies with the state-of-the-art highly specialized frame-based approach. The new technology was successfully deployed in monitoring dynamically modulated laser heating of gold nanoparticles coated on a diamond surface. “It would be difficult to perform the same task using existing approaches,” Du said.

Unlike traditional sensors that record the light intensity levels, neuromorphic vision sensors process the light intensity change into “spikes” similar to biological vision systems, leading to improved temporal resolution (≈µs) and dynamic range (>120 dB). This approach is particularly effective in scenarios where image changes are infrequent, such as object tracking and autonomous vehicles, as it eliminates redundant static background signals.

“We anticipate that our successful demonstration of the proposed method will revolutionise widefield quantum sensing, significantly improving performance at an affordable cost,” said Professor Zhiqin Chu.

“This also brings closer the realisation of near-sensor processing with emerging memory-based electronic synapse devices,” said Professor Can Li.

“The technology’s potential for industrial use should be explored further, such as studying dynamic changes in currents in materials and identifying defects in microchips,” said Professor Ngai Wong.

Link to the paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/advs.202304355

Hashtag: #HKU

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns as the Official NATAS Sponsor and Travel Partner for 2024


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 February 2024 – Etiqa Insurance Singapore, a leading general and life insurer, today announced its continued sponsorship of the 2024 National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) Fair from 1 to 3 March as its Official Travel Insurance Partner. This third consecutive year of partnership with NATAS underscores Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s steadfast commitment to protecting all Singaporeans for travel needs.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns as the Official NATAS Sponsor and Travel Partner for 2024
Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns as the Official NATAS Sponsor and Travel Partner for 2024

To celebrate Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s 10th Anniversary, Etiqa will be offering a series of exciting activities and campaigns throughout the year. Visitors to Etiqa’s booth at 4H35 at Expo Hall 4 and 5A can enjoy up to 35% off their travel insurance policies, free gifts with every purchase, and also stand to win 2 Apple iPhones worth $3,600!

“Etiqa Insurance Singapore is delighted to announce its return as the official travel insurer for NATAS Travel 2024. Our extensive range of travel insurance plans are designed to safeguard Singaporeans’ holidays, providing travellers with the confidence they need to explore the world. With the right protection, Singaporeans can look forward to a seamless travel experience, accompanied by the assurance and peace of mind they deserve,” stated Raymond Ong, CEO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore.

Drop by booth 4H35 to find out more about Etiqa’s travel insurance plans, tailored for both individual and family vacations. NATAS Travel 2024 will be open from 1 March to 3 March between 10 am to 9.30 pm. Admission is free.

Terms apply. Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.

Hashtag: #etiqa #etiqainsurancesingapore #natas #natasfair #travelinsurance

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Etiqa Insurance Singapore)

Protecting customers since 1961, Etiqa Insurance Singapore is a licensed life and general insurance company regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and governed by the Insurance Act. The local insurer is the Singapore operating entity of Etiqa Insurance Group – a leading insurance and takaful business in ASEAN offering life and general insurance and family and general takaful products through its agents, branches, offices, and bancassurance network in the region. Etiqa is rated ‘A’ by credit rating agency Fitch for the group’s ‘Favorable’ business profile and ‘Very Strong’ capitalisation.

Etiqa is owned by Maybank Ageas Holdings Berhad, a joint venture company that combines local market knowledge with international insurance expertise. The company is 69% owned by Maybank, the fourth largest banking group in Southeast Asia, and 31% by Ageas, an international insurance group with footprints across 16 countries and a heritage that spans over 190 years.

First Phosphate Provides Update on Plans for a Purified Phosphoric Acid Plant at Port Saguenay, Quebec


SAGUENAY, QUEBEC – Newsfile Corp. – 20 February 2024 – First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS) (OTC: FRSPF) (FSE: KD0) (“First Phosphate” or the “Company”) is pleased to update the market on its plans for a purified phosphoric acid (“PPA”) plant at the Port of Saguenay and the development of the North American lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) battery valley in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region of Quebec.

On November 21, 2022, First Phosphate CEO, John Passalacqua, addressed the Federation of Chambers of Commerce of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region of Quebec (“FCC-SLSJ”) and shared, with local business leaders and politicians, the vision for the creation of an LFP battery ecosystem in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region of Quebec. Mr. Passalacqua provided a further update to the FCC-SLSJ on February 8, 2024. A recording of the February 8 session is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnarUchmXdg.

Building a PPA plant and an LFP battery ecosystem for North America is a major undertaking. Since first laying out the Company’s vision in 2022, First Phosphate has taken the following progressive steps towards realizing its PPA plant at Port Saguenay and in establishing the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec as the LFP battery valley of North America.

Engineering and Feasibility Study

The Company has completed its internal pre-feasibility study for its PPA plant at Port Saguenay, Quebec and is in the process of evaluating engineering firms to begin a potential formal feasibility study. All PPA production will be fully internalized and limited to the development of LFP cathode active material (“CAM”) by the Company and its strategic partners so as not to disrupt existing fragile equilibria in the food phosphates and fertilizer industries.

The Company has created a full proprietary financial model for the future PPA facility and is amenable to sharing details of its pre-feasibility work with those who have the ability to add synergies to its existing network of strategic partners.

Industrial Land, Infrastructure & Port Access

The Company signed a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) with Port Saguenay Authority to secure industrial lands and deep-sea shipping access for the establishment a PPA plant:
https://firstphosphate.com/PortSaguenay

Sulfuric Acid Supply

The Company signed an MOU with with NorFalco Sales (“NorFalco”), a division of Glencore Canada Corporation to secure supply of sulfuric acid (a key component in the production of PPA) for its future industrial facilities in Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, Quebec:
https://firstphosphate.com/norfalco

Phosphate Concentrate Feedstock

The Company successfully concentrated its phosphate ore into beneficiated phosphate concentrate at ~41% pure P205 (~97% pure apatite) in pilot production and has developed a pilot plant for the purpose of creating feedstock to produce PPA:
https://firstphosphate.com/pilotplant

PPA Production

The Company transformed its beneficiated phosphate concentrate into Merchant Grade Phosphoric Acid (“MGA”) and subsequently into food/battery grade PPA at pilot scale:
https://www.firstphosphate.com/phos_acid

PPA Facility Financing

The Company established a clean, debt-free credit history and has been able to procure an LOI from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“EXIM”) to provide stable, government-backed financing for a PPA plant while limiting the amount of equity dilution to shareholders.
https://firstphosphate.com/exim

Downstream LFP Manufacturing Partnerships

The Company negotiated agreements with various LFP production technology providers for downstream offtake for its PPA production and to service various LFP market segments:
https://firstphosphate.com/abf
https://firstphosphate.com/ultion-technologies-mou
https://firstphosphate.com/IntegralsPower
https://firstphosphate.com/lithium-australia-mou
https://firstphosphate.com/sunchem
https://firstphosphate.com/ipl_jda

Local Supply Chain Development

Through Comité de maximisation des retombées économiques regionals (“CMAX”), the Company has created direct relationships with businesses, contractors and suppliers in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec that have experience with large-scale industrial projects.. The Company has obtained regional major project status from CMAX:
https://firstphosphate.com/CRP-CMAX

Indigenous Community Involvement

CEO, John Passalacqua, and Chief Geologist, Gilles Laverdière, have personally visited all three local Innu communities (Essipit, Mastheuiatsh, Pessamit) and met with local leadership to present the project and to establish dialogue. Innu First Nations mining executive, Armand Mackenize, was appointed to the advisory board of the Company. Groupe Conseil Nutshimit-Nippour was hired for social and environmental impact analysis; and First Nations Drilling was engaged for exploration activities:
https://firstphosphate.com/armandmackenzie
https://firstphosphate.com/le-groupe-conseil-nutshimit-nippour
https://firstphosphate.com/first-nations-drilling

Clean Power from Quebec Hydro

The Company submitted formal requests to Quebec Hydro in 2023 for the allocation of clean electricity to the PPA and LFP facilities as well as requested consideration to return electricity to the hydro grid should a sulfuric acid plant be built at the Port of Saguenay. The Company’s requests are with Hydro Quebec Lots #2 and #3 and awaiting response.
https://www.hydroquebec.com

Quebec Critical-Strategic Minerals List and Government Awareness

In January 2024, in response to advocacy by the Company and others, the Quebec Government recognized apatite (phosphate) as a critical and strategic mineral. Furthermore, the Company received a strong letter of support for its activities and its planned PPA plant from Mario Simard, Member of Parliament for the local riding of Jonquière, Québec, vice-chair of Parliament’s Standing Committee on Natural Resources and critic for natural resources for the Bloc Québécois.
https://firstphosphate.com/phosphate-added-critical-minerals-list
https://firstphosphate.com/mariosimard.pdf

Battery Ecosystem Development and Validation of the Company’s Business Model

On January 30, 2024, Arianne Phosphate (DAN: TSXV) announced that “it has commenced work on a Prefeasibility Study to construct a downstream purified phosphoric acid plant in the region” and “allow the Saguenay region to establish itself within the global battery ecosystem.” First Phosphate looks forward to working with all interested parties in generating awareness and support for, and building the infrastructure necessary to realize its vision of developing the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region of Quebec into the LFP battery valley of North America.
https://www.arianne-inc.com/news/arianne-phosphate-advances-prefeasibility-study-for-a-purified-phosphoric-acid-plant
https://firstphosphate.com/ChambresCommerce

Proposed Location of First Phosphate PPA Facility at Existing Port of Saguenay

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8917/198475_1c5ff88b64f7ca22_001full.jpg

About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in responsible manner and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate materially devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

For additional information, please contact:

Bennett Kurtz, CFO
bennett@firstphosphate.com
Tel: +1 (416) 200-0657

Investor Relations: investor@firstphosphate.com
Media Relations: media@firstphosphate.com
Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com

Follow First Phosphate:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FirstPhosphate
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-phosphate

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Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statements

This news release contains certain statements and information that may be considered “forward-looking statements” and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “targets”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “an opportunity exists”, “is positioned”, “estimates”, “intends”, “assumes”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, “will” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved” and other similar expressions. In addition, statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements, including, among other things, the Company’s planned exploration and production activities, the properties and composition of any extracted phosphate, the Company’s plans for vertical integration into North American supply chains, including, but not limited to, the Company’s ability to realize and successfully participate in its “Vertically Integrated Production Plan” and “External Downstream Producer” plan, and related disclosure, continued relations with local Innu communities, the establishment of the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec as the LFP battery valley of North America, the results of feasibility studies, and the receipt of approvals and availability of financing for the proposed PPA plant,

These statements and other forward-looking information are based on assumptions and estimates that the Company believes are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances, including, without limitation, expectations of the Company’s long term business outcomes given its short operating history; expectations regarding revenue, expenses and operations; the Company having sufficient working capital and ability to secure additional funding necessary for the exploration of the Company’s property interests; expectations regarding the potential mineralization, geological merit and economic feasibility of the Company’s projects; expectations regarding drill programs and the potential impacts successful drill programs could have on the life of the mine and the Company; mineral exploration and exploration program cost estimates; expectations regarding any environmental issues that may affect planned or future exploration programs and the potential impact of complying with existing and proposed environmental laws and regulations; receipt and timing of exploration and exploitation permits and other third-party approvals; government regulation of mineral exploration and development operations; expectations regarding any social or local community issues that may affect planned or future exploration and development programs; expectations surrounding global economic trends and technological advancements; and key personnel continuing their employment with the Company.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include: limited operating history; high risk of business failure; no profits or significant revenues; limited resources; negative cash flow from operations and dependence on third-party financing; the uncertainty of additional funding; no dividends; risks related to possible fluctuations in revenues and results; insurance and uninsured risks; litigation; reliance on management and key personnel; conflicts of interest; access to supplies and materials; dangers of mineral exploration and related liability and damages; risks relating to health and safety; government regulation and legal uncertainties; the company’s exploration and development properties may not be successful and are highly speculative in nature; dependence on outside parties; title to some of the Company’s mineral properties may be challenged or defective; Aboriginal title and land claims; obtaining and renewing licenses and permits; environmental and other regulatory risks may adversely affect the company; risks relating to climate change; risks related to infrastructure; land reclamation requirements may be burdensome; current global financial conditions; fluctuation in commodity prices; dilution; future sales by existing shareholders could cause the Company’s share price to fall; fluctuation and volatility in stock exchange prices; and risks related to market demands. There can be no assurance that any opportunity will be successful, commercially viable, completed on time or on budget, or will generate any meaningful revenues, savings or earnings, as the case may be, for the Company. In addition, the Company will incur costs in pursuing any particular opportunity, which may be significant.

These factors and assumptions are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors and assumptions that could affect the Company and, though they should be considered carefully, should be considered in conjunction with the risk factors described in the Company’s other documents filed with the Canadian securities authorities, including without limitation the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Information Form dated November 29, 2023 which is available on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company has attempted to identify factors that would cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those disclosed in the forward-looking information or information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About First Phosphate Corp.