Recent Interventions by National Sanitary Security Institute of Food Products (INSSPA) Result in Seizure of Over 11 Tonnes of Unfit Food
Recent interventions conducted by the control teams of the National Sanitary Security Institute of Food Products (INSSPA), in coordination with security services and the Ministry of Commerce, have resulted in the seizure of approximately 11 tonnes and 330 kilograms of food products unfit for consumption in several governorates across the country.
Seized Products Pose Health Risks
According to a statement published by the INSSPA on Sunday, the seized products included meat, vegetables, fruits, and various food preparations that posed health risks. The products were found to be contaminated, improperly stored, or produced in unhygienic conditions.
Discovery of Clandestine Slaughterhouses
In the governorates of Ariana and Manouba, joint teams from the INSSPA and the Municipal Guard discovered several clandestine sheep slaughterhouses operating outside of approved abattoirs, without adhering to minimal hygiene standards. The operations resulted in the seizure of:
- 85.4 kg of red meat
- Frozen and salted offal
- 62 kg of various meats and offal The agents also found six carcasses of sheep slaughtered in non-compliant conditions, as well as 36 sheep and 17 lambs intended for illegal slaughter. Reports and written warnings were issued against the offenders.
Seizures in Other Governorates
- In Sousse, INSSPA teams seized 5,780 kg of non-compliant food preparation produced in a clandestine workshop, as well as 635 kg of dates, 300 kg of onions, and 45 kg of decomposing tomatoes.
- In the Kef governorate, 657 kg of apples and 3,590 kg of onions were seized from a refrigerated warehouse that did not meet sanitary standards.
- In Gafsa, controllers confiscated 115 kg of poultry meat and 177 kg of salami stored outside the cold chain, as well as 59 kg of unknown-origin pastry ingredients and 20 kg of products containing the banned dye E102. Three prosecution reports were opened, and the files were transmitted to the prosecutor's office.
- In Tozeur, interventions resulted in the seizure of 89.8 kg of red meat and 4.7 kg of merguez due to their storage in unsanitary conditions and exposure contrary to hygiene rules.
INSSPA Reaffirms Commitment to Food Safety
The INSSPA reaffirmed its determination to intensify control campaigns across the country and ensure compliance with food safety, storage, and conservation standards. The institute called on professionals in the sector to strictly adhere to existing regulations.
