Tunisia's National Health Safety Agency for Food Products conducted over 34,000 monitoring operations at public food establishments from January to October 2026. The agency performed more than 6,000 lab analyses to ensure food products met required specifications. These efforts aimed to guarantee food safety and quality for consumers across the country. According to the agency's report, these operations led to significant findings and actions against non-compliant establishments.
The monitoring operations resulted in the confiscation and destruction of 1,120 tons of non-consumable food products. Additionally, 1,347 judicial records were filed against violators, 2,070 written warnings were issued, and 125 establishments were shut down for failing to meet basic food safety requirements. These actions demonstrate the agency's commitment to enforcing food safety regulations and protecting public health. The operations were overseen by the agency's Director-General, Mohamed Rabhi.
The agency also focused on monitoring drinking water quality. Over 17,294 operations were conducted to measure residual chlorine in water, verifying the effectiveness of the disinfection process. Furthermore, 767 microbiological analyses and 434 physicochemical analyses were performed. The agency also searched for heavy metals, lead, and radioactive materials to ensure water compliance with health requirements. These efforts aimed to guarantee safe drinking water for the population.
In the area of food import monitoring, the agency processed 1,233 files related to food imports. This led to the approval of over 50,000 tons of food products and the rejection of 134 tons of non-compliant products. The agency's rigorous controls helped prevent the entry of substandard food products into the country. By maintaining high standards, the agency protected consumers and supported local food producers.
The agency also carried out export monitoring activities. A total of 13,193 monitoring operations were conducted, covering 10,564 shipments. The analysis of 2,629 samples resulted in the issuance of 10,237 quality control certificates and 642 conformity certificates. However, 49 cases of shipment refusal were recorded. These efforts ensured that Tunisian food exports met international quality and safety standards.
The National Health Safety Agency for Food Products continued to develop its quality system and pursue accreditation. The agency worked on improving its quality management system according to international standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 17020, and ISO 17025. This involved implementing training programs in quality, integrity, and impartiality. By enhancing its internal processes, the agency aimed to maintain its credibility and effectiveness.
The agency is also working on digitalizing its activities. The completion of its official portal will enable the provision of remote services, in addition to the implementation of digital systems for administrative and financial management, as well as sample tracking. Furthermore, the agency is developing a program to enhance the capabilities of its human resources. These initiatives will help streamline the agency's operations and improve its efficiency.
Key points
- The Tunisian National Health Safety Agency for Food Products conducted over 34,000 monitoring operations in 2026.
- The agency confiscated and destroyed 1,120 tons of non-consumable food products.
- The agency issued 10,237 quality control certificates and 642 conformity certificates for food exports.
