The Ministry of Climate Change and Habitat (MoCCAE) in the United Arab Emirates has launched a extensive examination into the potential contamination of a beef pepperoni product wiht Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with local regulatory authorities and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority to ensure the highest standards of food safety across the region.
According to official statements, the Ministry is coordinating with the producing company to precautionarily withdraw the product from the UAE market. This measure will remain in place until laboratory examinations are completed and the details of the incident are verified. His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at MoCCAE, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to applying the highest food safety standards to all food materials, whether locally produced or imported.
“The Ministry is currently intensifying its investigations into the aforementioned product to ensure its suitability for consumption quickly,” Dr. Al Hammadi stated. He further explained that laboratory and field work teams are actively collecting additional samples for testing in specialized laboratories, while simultaneously removing the product from all markets in the country.
The Ministry’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance food safety and protect the community from potential health risks.Dr. al Hammadi stressed that ensuring the safety of products and safeguarding consumers from food-related hazards is a top priority for the UAE.
In addition to these immediate actions, MoCCAE highlighted the role of the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed. This system facilitates the immediate exchange of information about harmful foods among Arab Gulf countries, enabling a unified and rapid response to potential threats. “The system enhances the ability of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to take preventive measures and effectively protect the health of consumers,” the ministry confirmed.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|———————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Product Under Investigation | Beef pepperoni contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria |
| Action Taken | Precautionary withdrawal from UAE markets |
| Collaborating Authorities | local regulatory bodies and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority |
| Testing Process | Additional samples collected and analyzed in specialized laboratories |
| Safety Mechanism | Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed ensures rapid information exchange|
the Ministry’s proactive approach underscores its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of food safety and protecting public health.Consumers are encouraged to stay informed and report any concerns regarding food products to the relevant authorities. For more details on this investigation, visit the official declaration here.
