National Food Safety Authority (INSSPA) Seizes and Destroys Over 1,205 kg of Non-Conforming, Hazardous, or Unknown-Origin Meat Products Ahead of Eid al-Adha
Enhanced National Control Measures to Ensure Food Safety and Protect Public Health
In the run-up to Eid al-Adha, the National Food Safety Authority (INSSPA) has announced the seizure and destruction of over 1,205 kg of non-conforming, hazardous, or unknown-origin red meat and animal products. These operations are part of a strengthened national control framework aimed at guaranteeing the sanitary safety of products on sale and protecting consumer health.
Coordinated Efforts with Regional Structures and Local Authorities
These operations were carried out in coordination with regional INSSPA structures and in partnership with local authorities, municipal police, and trade services, covering all livestock markets, slaughterhouses, and meat shops.
Notable Operations in Sousse Governorate
In the Sousse governorate, joint operations led to the seizure of two cattle weighing approximately 500 kg, which showed clinical signs of disease and were confirmed to be infected with tuberculosis. They were destroyed in accordance with existing sanitary procedures.
In the same region, control teams also seized around 540 kg of bovine and ovine livers from an unauthorized premises. Inspections revealed serious hygiene breaches, lack of product traceability, and non-compliance with the cold chain. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the premises' owner.
Other Operations in Various Governorates
Other operations were conducted in several governorates. In Jendouba, 37.85 kg of unknown-origin ovine meat were seized from a butcher shop. In Gafsa, 52.8 kg of ovine meat were confiscated due to non-compliance with conservation conditions and sanitary safety standards. In Kairouan, 75 kg of frozen liver were removed from circulation due to unknown origin and non-compliant storage.
Enhanced Awareness and Sensitization Efforts
In parallel with the controls, INSSPA has strengthened its awareness and sensitization efforts targeting citizens, breeders, and traders. Teams composed of veterinarians and hygiene specialists have been mobilized to remind stakeholders of applicable sanitary rules, particularly regarding animal transportation, housing, slaughter, and meat conservation.
Communication Supports and Assistance
Communication supports have also been distributed in markets and sales points to guide consumers in choosing healthy animals and good practices for meat conservation after slaughter. INSSPA has also set up an assistance system throughout the Eid period, mobilizing available veterinarians to respond to citizen inquiries and, if necessary, conduct remote consultations via WhatsApp.
Public Health Protection and Prevention Efforts
Finally, INSSPA has reminded citizens of the availability of a toll-free number, 80106977, for reporting and information requests, as part of prevention and public health protection efforts during this festive period.
