Massive Food‑Safety Seizure in August 2025: 15 Tonnes of Unfit Products Confiscated
Since the beginning of August 2025, inspection teams from the National Authority for Food‑Safety (INSSPA) have seized 15 tonnes of products deemed unsafe for consumption, many of them intended for the preparation of assida for the Mouled celebration.
What Was Confiscated?
| Category | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cereals and derivatives | 6.5 t |
| Dried fruits | 2.5 t |
| Zgougou‑based products* | 548 kg |
| Confectionery (candies, sweets) | 172 kg |
| Decorative treats | 160 kg |
| Various ingredients | 35 kg |
| Juices and carbonated drinks | 5 081 L |
* Zgougou is a traditional West‑African ingredient made from the seeds of the African plum tree.
Enforcement Actions
- 61 judicial reports (procès‑verbaux) were filed.
- 7 retail outlets selling confectionery and other food items were shut down for breaching sanitary standards.
- A total of 1 205 inspections were carried out.
- 86 samples were sent to the laboratory to test for mycotoxins, contaminants, or prohibited additives.
Note: Nearly 200 INSSPA teams were mobilised across all regions to execute the operation.
Why It Matters
The seized goods pose serious health risks, especially during festive periods when consumption spikes. Contaminated cereals, dried fruits, and sugary treats can harbor:
- Mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxins) that affect liver function.
- Chemical residues from illegal additives.
- Microbial hazards that cause food‑borne illnesses.
Recommendations for Consumers
- Buy from authorized retailers – avoid informal stalls or “anarchic” points of sale.
- Check labeling carefully – verify the expiration date, batch number, and ingredient list.
- Inspect product quality – look for signs of spoilage, unusual odors, or damaged packaging.
- Report violations – call the dedicated food‑safety hotline 80 106 977 if you suspect non‑compliant products.
Call to Action
The INSSPA urges the public to stay vigilant and prioritize food safety, especially during cultural celebrations like the Mouled. By choosing reputable vendors and reporting suspicious items, consumers help protect public health and support the enforcement of strict sanitary standards.
For more updates on food‑safety regulations and ongoing inspections, follow our official channels or visit the INSSPA website.
