The UAE has ordered the withdrawal of processed pepperoni beef from supermarkets due to concerns over potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCE) confirmed on Saturday. The decision follows an investigation into the food product's safety, and while the specific producer has not been identified, the MoCCE stated that coordination is ongoing with local regulatory authorities and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.
The bacteria in question, Listeria monocytogenes, can cause listeriosis, a serious foodborne illness. This infection is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, individuals over 65 years old, and those with weakened immune systems. The bacteria are typically transmitted when food is processed, prepared, or packaged improperly.
To ensure public safety, the MoCCE has activated the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food (GRASF), which facilitates the exchange of information regarding health risks from food products across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The system is instrumental in managing alerts, banning contaminated products, and helping to mitigate food safety risks.
Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hamadi, Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity at MoCCE, assured that the ministry is working with relevant authorities to apply the highest food safety standards to all food products in the country, whether locally produced or imported. He emphasized that investigations are ongoing and that additional samples are being collected for laboratory testing.
The ministry has also confirmed that the affected product is being removed from all markets in the UAE as the investigation continues.
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