Over 110,000 birds culled in Moldova following illegal drug discovery in feed
Moldova’s National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) has officially suspended all imports of mixed poultry feed from Ukraine.
The emergency measure follows the detection of metronidazole, a prohibited substance, in blood samples, feed, and eggs at several commercial farms.
According to the official decree, metronidazole is unauthorized for animals intended for human consumption. Its presence in the food chain is classified by Moldovan authorities as an illegal treatment.
Laboratory results confirm contamination
The contamination was verified by accredited laboratories, including the Institute for Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health in Bucharest. Inspections revealed that several poultry farms used feed imported from Ukraine that contained the banned substance.
"Laboratory reports confirm the presence of metronidazole in bird serum, as well as in feed and egg samples," ANSA stated in their official report.
Major risks to the food chain
Authorities warn that using contaminated feed leads to the inevitable transfer of chemicals into animal products. This poses a direct threat to public health and risks triggering international export bans on Moldovan poultry.
The agency emphasized that the suspension is based on the precautionary principle. This move aims to prevent the contamination of the country's entire poultry supply chain.
Large-scale culling and market recalls
The impact of the discovery is significant. At least 110,000 birds have been culled following 17 targeted inspections at warehouses, farms, and slaughterhouses across the country.
As of January 9, ANSA has frozen all movement of birds and eggs from the affected units. A full market recall for eggs produced at these facilities is currently underway. The import ban will remain in effect until Ukrainian veterinary authorities provide sufficient safety guarantees.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
