During the recent Carnival period, authorities in the Attica region seized thousands of kilograms of unsafe food in a series of inspections. From February 6 to 23, inspections were carried out by the General Directorate of Agricultural Economy, Veterinary, and Fisheries.
In total, 1,108 inspections took place across various locations, including retail stores and markets. These checks led to 13 seizures, with a total of 5,671 kilograms of unsafe food being confiscated. The haul included 4,851 kilograms of meat and derivatives, as well as 820 kilograms of seafood.
Inspectors focused on different categories, conducting 450 checks on exports, 352 on animal products, 255 on plant-based items, and 16 inspections at slaughterhouses. Additionally, they issued 101 recommendations for compliance to ensure safety standards were met.
“Protecting public health is essential,” said Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias. “Especially during festive times when families gather and food consumption rises, we need to maintain strict quality in what reaches consumers.”
This proactive approach is grounded in a strategy of prevention and transparency. Hardalias emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for any breaches of health regulations. Such measures are crucial, particularly as recent reports indicate a troubling trend where food safety violations have risen in many urban areas. According to a recent survey by the European Food Safety Authority, foodborne illnesses have increased by 30% since the pandemic, highlighting the importance of rigorous inspections.
With festivities coinciding with higher food sales, local governments are stepping up efforts to prevent unsafe practices. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious food quality issues, creating a community approach to food safety.
In today’s world, where health consciousness is on the rise, safety in food practices is more important than ever. As consumers, being informed about food safety can lead not only to healthier choices, but also to a safer community overall.
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Food & Drink, SAFETY, ECONOMY, IN DEPTH, SOCIETY
