In a large-scale campaign, the Damietta Veterinary Medicine Directorate, in coordination with the Supply Sector and the Local Unit of Kfar Saad Center, conducted a series of raids on markets and restaurants. The operation aimed to monitor the quality of food products available to citizens. As a result, significant quantities of unfit-for-consumption meat were seized, which had been slaughtered outside of official slaughterhouses.
The campaign was carried out in line with directives from Damietta Governor, Dr. Hossam El-Din Fouzi, and in coordination with Agriculture Minister, Mr. Alaa Farouk, and Engineer Mostafa El-Sayad, Deputy Minister of Agriculture. Dr. Hamad El-Aqnass, head of the General Organization for Veterinary Services, oversaw the operation, with direct supervision from Dr. Ossama Ahmed El-Sayed, director of the Damietta Veterinary Medicine Directorate.
Led by Dr. Dina Tolat El-Isawi, director of the Slaughterhouses and Meat Inspection Department, and Dr. Rehab Salamah, director of the Leather Department, the campaign included inspections of several restaurants, butcher shops, and markets. The goal was to verify compliance with meat trading regulations and adherence to standard specifications. The operation also involved Mohamed Mahdi, a supply inspector with the Supply Control Authority.
During the inspections, authorities discovered and seized quantities of locally sourced meat that had been slaughtered outside the official system. After conducting a visual veterinary examination, it was determined that the meat was unfit for human consumption, showing signs of spoilage and changes in natural properties, with no official slaughterhouse seals.
The seized meat was confiscated by the executive committees, and the necessary reports were filed. Those responsible were referred to the Public Prosecution for further investigation, based on the provisions of the Agriculture Law and the Food Safety Law No. 1 of 2017, as well as ministerial decisions regulating the prohibition of slaughter outside approved slaughterhouses to protect public health.
The Damietta Veterinary Medicine Directorate continues to conduct periodic and surprise inspections across all centers and villages in the governorate. The goal is to tighten control over meat trading markets and prevent all forms of commercial fraud, ensuring the safety of food provided to citizens.
Key stakeholders involved in the campaign emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between relevant authorities to maintain food safety standards and prevent the trade of unregulated meat. The efforts aim to protect public health and promote a safe food supply in Damietta.
Key points
- Egyptian authorities seized significant quantities of unfit-for-consumption meat in a large-scale campaign in Damietta.
- The campaign was carried out in coordination with multiple government agencies to monitor food quality and enforce regulations.
- Authorities continue to conduct inspections to prevent commercial fraud and ensure food safety in the region.
