The Egyptian Food Safety Authority has intensified its campaigns in the East Nile Delta region, targeting illegal trading and handling of food products. A recent operation in the Derb Njam area led to the confiscation of large quantities of used and food oils being traded and packaged irregularly. The operation was part of the authority's ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and enforce regulations.
During the inspection, authorities discovered a livestock farm involved in collecting and packaging used cooking oil alongside the farm. About 5 tons and 382 kg of used cooking oil were seized due to a lack of documentation proving the origin and trading locations of these products. Legal actions were taken, and further regulatory procedures were initiated for the confiscated quantities.
The operation also uncovered irregularities at an oil bottling plant, where manual filling of oil from taps under storage tanks was observed, along with the use of packaging bearing trademarks not affiliated with the plant. These practices violate the regulations and controls governing packaging and trading. As a result, 2 tons and 400 kg of food oil, 400 empty cartons, and 1,200 plastic containers were confiscated.
The Egyptian Food Safety Authority reaffirms its commitment to monitoring food establishments and activities across various governorates, taking legal actions against violations, and continuing inspections to ensure compliance with food product trading regulations. This aims to protect consumer health and safety.
The crackdown on illegal oil trading is part of a broader effort to enhance food safety in Egypt. The country has been working to improve its food safety standards, including increased inspections and stricter regulations. The operations are also intended to support legal businesses and maintain fair competition in the market.
According to the Egyptian Radio and Television Union, the Food Safety Authority's efforts have led to significant seizures of unsafe food products in recent months. The authority continues to collaborate with other agencies to strengthen food safety and quality control measures.
The Egyptian government has emphasized the importance of food safety, with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi highlighting the need for enhanced cooperation and integration in food security and safety during recent discussions. The government's focus on this issue underscores its commitment to protecting public health.
Key points
- The Egyptian Food Safety Authority seized 5.38 tons of used cooking oil and 2.4 tons of food oil during a recent operation in the East Nile Delta region.
- The operation targeted illegal trading and packaging practices, resulting in legal actions and confiscation of products.
- The authority continues its efforts to ensure food safety and enforce regulations across Egypt.