Thursday 25 / April / 2024
Muscat: Oman has halted the issuing of new permits for egg imports from Europe due to alleged insecticide contamination, officials announced.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries has stopped issuing permits for the import of eggs from European countries, in light of news of an insecticide, Fipronil, contaminating several farm areas in the Netherlands.
"The Ministry has taken all precautionary measures to guarantee the safety of imported eggs from Europe to the Sultanate, and providing eggs that are free of risks that may affect people's health," a ministry statement said.
Along with a halt on import permits, the Ministry has also informed veterinary specialists at veterinary quarantine areas along border points to intensify their inspections and increase their inspection procedures by taking samples of all eggs that are sent from European countries that reach the Sultanate due to previously issued permits.
"The samples should undergo the appropriate laboratory testing to ensure that the eggs are marked safe for human consumption and fit the approved specifications," the Ministry statement added.
The agency will also coordinate with inspection entities in Oman's markets in order to reserve eggs that have been imported from European countries, and send samples for laboratory testing.
"It is important to note that farms in several European countries have been affected by the insecticide Fipronil, which is banned in its use on chicken farms. European authorities are currently uncovering details regarding the case," the Ministry said.
The agency also affirmed the public on their continuous follow up regarding this issue, and that they have taken all necessary precautions and procedures to ensure the safety of imports to Oman, in collaboration with related Omani agencies and entities.
