Major Chinese dairy manufacturers and retailers have made a joint pledge after the deadly milk powder scandal, promising to ensure the safety of dairy products.

But to begin with, major Chinese dairy producers have written a public letter to the Chinese people, promising a thorough and comprehensive industry overhaul.

Among the list of manufactures are Meng Niu, Yi Li and Guang Ming, household brands for 1.3 billion Chinese.

In the pledge, the dairy producers say they are committed to rebuilding their brands by jointly making a safety net for dairy products. They say, only by doing that can they safeguard the interests of consumers and dairy farmers.

The scandal-hit dairy manufacturers have made detailed promises, saying they will first make sure no sub-standard raw materials make their way into factories. Secondly, they will oversee every step of the manufacturing process. And all dairy products will be examined by national dairy watchdogs. They will also recall all dairy goods containing melamine, and compensate victims.

Supermarkets and stores selling these products are also among companies making the pledge. They include some big names such as Carrefour China, and Hua Lian Supermarket.

They say they will introduce stricter rules and regulations when buying dairy products. They will also engage in promoting public awareness, providing health tips to potential dairy product buyers.

(CCTV September 24, 2008)