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Unsafe food sold in markets? UAE authority clarifies

Abu Dhabi - The country does not import any food items that do not meet required standards.

The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has warned the public against spreading rumors on social media that there were some bad and unsafe food items in the markets.

ADFCA has assured people that all foodstuffs in the markets is safe, stressing that the country cannot allow the import of any food items before confirming that it conforms to the approved specifications.

"The UAE strictly follows the procedures to ensure that all food products imported to the country are safe and meet the required specifications and standards," Thamer Rashid Al Qasimi said in a statement.

"There is no way for any bad or unsafe food to enter the UAE."

Al Qasimi said there was rumor that has been circulating on social media networks in recent days about the presence of bad or unsafe foodstuffs in the markets which is not true.

"Such rumors raise a lot of panic and concern among consumers. People should not believe in such false warnings on social media as they are from unknown sources and are only intended to mislead the public," he said.

Al Qasimi added: "When you find such a food safety warning, please first cross-check its authenticity with the officials from the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority."

"Food safety warnings are issued by authorities only and not by individuals."

He pointed out that it was important for the consumers to have confidence in the quality of foodstuffs sold in the markets, given the fact that all food items cannot enter into the country unless authorities have confirmed they conform to the approved specifications and safe for people's consumption.

The official stressed that ADFCA was keen on monitoring all foodstuff in the markets and will continue with their inspection campaigns on food outlets to ensure safety and standards.

ismail@khaleejtimes.com