On Wednesday, September 23, 2026, joint economic monitoring teams in Mahdia, Tunisia, confiscated 4.7 tons of chicken and its derivatives that were unfit for consumption. The seizure was made at a company operating in the poultry production and slaughtering sector, which also supplies specialized stores in the region. The operation was carried out in the presence of the Mahdia governor and the regional trade director.
During the inspection, the team found that the company had failed to conduct regular checks on its weighing machines and had discrepancies in its transactions and invoices. A search report was drawn up, highlighting these irregularities. The National Health Safety Authority for Food Products also identified several other breaches, including expired products, missing legal specifications for production dates, and no indication of product shelf life.
Further irregularities were discovered, including the storage of products in unsanitary conditions. The products were found to be past their expiration dates, and the company was unable to provide valid documentation. The National Health Safety Authority for Food Products is expected to complete the necessary legal procedures to destroy the seized products.
The joint economic monitoring teams in Mahdia are part of a broader effort to ensure food safety and quality in Tunisia. The authorities have been cracking down on companies that fail to meet health and safety standards, and several high-profile cases have been reported in recent months. The Mahdia governorate has been a focus area for these efforts, with several inspections and seizures taking place in the region.
The company involved in the seizure has been cooperative with the authorities, but the incident highlights the need for stricter controls on food production and distribution in Tunisia. The country's food safety regulations are in place to protect consumers, but enforcement can be inconsistent. The authorities have pledged to increase inspections and take tougher action against companies that breach health and safety standards.
The seizure of 4.7 tons of expired chicken and derivatives is a significant blow to the company involved, and it may face penalties and fines as a result of the incident. The incident also raises questions about the wider food safety landscape in Tunisia and whether enough is being done to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The authorities have assured consumers that they are committed to ensuring the safety and quality of food products in Tunisia. The incident in Mahdia is a reminder that food safety is a top priority, and the authorities will take action against companies that fail to meet the required standards. The case is ongoing, and further developments are expected.
Key points
- 4.7 tons of expired chicken and derivatives were seized in Mahdia, Tunisia.
- The seizure was made at a company operating in the poultry production and slaughtering sector.
- The incident highlights the need for stricter controls on food production and distribution in Tunisia.
