Control on egg imports from the Netherlands

dubai — The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has issued a circular to the local authorities concerned to ensure that the country’s markets are free of contaminated eggs imported from the Netherlands. The ministry also tightened its control on the shipments of eggs and other food products to ensure safety and fitness for human consumption.

Entities responsible for implementing the circular include the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority and the municipalities of Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

The decision is based on the findings of a technical report following the warning issued by the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) regarding eggs produced in the country. According to the report, the eggs are unfit for human consumption due to high content of pesticide — Fipronil — residues as per the EU standards. The ministry urged the departments concerned not to provide import permits for eggs from the Netherlands if they carry the codes listed on the NVWA website. The website has currently listed 28 codes, and the information is continuously updated. The codes are clearly printed on the eggs’ shells.

The MOCCAE spares no effort to provide healthy and safe food to consumers in accordance with best international practices in order to enhance consumer confidence in the safety of food traded in the country. The ministry works relentlessly to achieve its strategic objectives in promoting food safety.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com