Blue S-symbol on many Chinese food and cosmetic items
 

I've noticed an increasing appearance of a small blue box with the letter S in it on the labels of Chinese made items like those in hotel bathrooms (shampoos, lotions, etc.) bottled water and other foodstuffs. I assume this is some indication of a safety inspection or certification to allay fears of specious products.

Yes, that's what it is. However, I advise you not to take the Chinese safety certification too seriously.

Thanks for confirming this. I shall take this with a grain of salt.