Eight tons of sheep and goat meat confiscated after ANSA inspections
Around eight tons of sheep and goat meat were confiscated, and the operations of a slaughterhouse were temporarily suspended after inspections conducted by the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) in farms and slaughterhouses across the Republic of Moldova. These inspections were aimed at preventing the spread of African swine fever (ASF), addressing illegal slaughter practices, and removing products lacking origin and traceability from the food supply chain.
Between June 1 and July 23, ANSA inspectors conducted checks on approximately 3,500 commercial and non-professional farms, as well as animal collection and export centers.
During these inspections, serious irregularities were found, leading to the temporary suspension of one slaughterhouse's operations. Authorities also ordered the forced slaughter of 158 unregistered animals, declaring their carcasses unfit for human consumption.
In addition, inspectors seized around eight tons of sheep and goat meat due to a lack of documentation verifying the animals' origin. Over 40 contravention sanctions were applied during these inspections, and 903 animals were placed under official movement restrictions until their traceability could be clarified.
ANSA urges operators in the food sector and animal owners to comply with sanitary and veterinary regulations, ensuring that all animals are identified and accompanied by official documentation. Strict biosecurity and traceability measures should be implemented.
The institution warns that inspections will continue nationwide, in collaboration with local public authorities, to prevent non-compliant animal products from entering the market.
Additionally, ANSA reminds that the identification and registration of animals are free for non-professional farms. This process not only allows owners to market their animals and products legally but also enables them to receive state compensation in the event of disease outbreaks or disasters.
