Over 26,000 imported food shipments processed in 2024

MUSCAT: The Food Safety and Quality Centre announced that it conducted 256 field visits during the first half of 2024 as part of its efforts to qualify facilities and enhance the monitoring and inspection of food products. These measures aim to ensure compliance with approved health standards and specifications.

The field visits spanned a variety of sectors including food, agriculture, animal and fish facilities, fish powder and fish oil factories, warehouses, fishing vessels, trading locations and marketing outlets, ensuring strict adherence to required safety and quality standards.

Dr Hussein bin Samah al Masroori, Director-General of the Food Safety and Quality Centre at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, emphasised the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring food safety and quality. He noted that an integrated system has been developed to keep pace with advancements in food production, focusing on scientific research and risk management.

An integrated system has been developed to keep pace with advancements in food production

In a statement to ONA, Dr Al Masroori highlighted the Ministry’s comprehensive efforts, which include implementing procedures and controls for food production, import, export and trade. These efforts also cover inspections, issuing necessary regulations, qualifying food facilities and monitoring products in local markets.

From January to October 2024, the centre addressed 90 reports and warnings, issued 11 local food circulars, conducted three recalls and released one public notice. These actions reflect the centre’s swift and effective response to food safety issues.

Additionally, the centre processed 26,584 imported food shipments during the first half of 2024. It issued more than 15,138 validity certificates, 2,319 health certificates and 552 export certificates, contributing to the enhancement of foreign trade in food products. Furthermore, the centre verified 451 explanatory data cards and 1,396 test reports.

These concerted efforts align with the Ministry’s commitment to achieving food safety and quality requirements, fostering consumer confidence in the food products available in the market.