China's largest producer of roasted seeds and nuts, Qiaqia Food Co Ltd, has been accused of a subpar and corrupt procurement system by its raw material supplier, the China Business News reported Thursday.

A senior sunflower seeds supplier, wishing to remain anonymous, claims that his company provides around 2.5 million kg of raw materials to Qiaqia Food annually, and some of the seeds supplied are of low-quality or crusted, said the report.

The supplier added that, although Qiaqia has a raw material purchasing standard, it does not follow the regulation strictly. In order to save costs, crusted seeds are purchased at a low price and apply to production accompany with the normal ones.

Additionally, corruption is allegedly widespread in the procurement process. Some procurement staff receive bribes before releasing the low quality seeds.

It is reported that in April, the Ministry of Health announced a draft regulation on national food safety standards for roasted nuts and seeds. For the first time, the new standard extends coverage to raw, dried and cooked nuts and seeds.