A raid on the fish market in Mecca: 160 kg of rotten fish confiscated
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture's office in Makkah, represented by the Markets and Slaughterhouses Department, intensified its field monitoring efforts by conducting a comprehensive inspection campaign targeting the central fish market in the Al-Kaakiyah district , as well as restaurants specializing in frying and preparing fish within the market's boundaries. This step comes as part of the Ministry's ongoing commitment to enhancing compliance with regulations and ensuring the application of the highest health standards.
Results of the inspection tour and confiscation of the corrupt goods
The thorough field campaign, aimed at ensuring the safety and quality of food products, resulted in the detection of nine violations related to health and safety standards. The inspection teams also confiscated and destroyed approximately 160 kilograms of fish that showed signs of spoilage and decay, rendering them unfit for human consumption. This action was taken to protect consumer health and prevent the distribution of any products that could pose a risk to public health.
The importance of food control in the Holy City
These campaigns are of paramount importance given the strategic and religious significance of the Holy City, which receives millions of visitors, pilgrims, and Umrah performers throughout the year. Therefore, relevant authorities prioritize food safety to ensure the provision of safe and healthy food for Makkah's residents and visitors. These efforts align with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , specifically the Quality of Life Program, which focuses on improving the urban landscape and enhancing the level of services provided, including rigorous oversight of central markets and food outlets to guarantee the sustainability of food security.
Health risks and safety of marine products
Seafood is among the most sensitive and perishable foods if not stored and transported at specific temperatures and under strict hygiene standards. Neglecting these standards can lead to serious health risks, such as food poisoning resulting from chemical changes in spoiled fish. Therefore, inspection tours are crucial, not only examining the final product but also reviewing official documentation and inspecting the tools and equipment used in cutting and processing to ensure they are free from rust or bacterial contamination and that the preparation environment is clean.
Statements from officials and the role of society
In this context, the Director of the Ministry's office in the Holy City of Mecca, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Hutairshi, explained that the inspection teams are working according to systematic plans to ensure the quality and safety of fish and to review all stages of handling. Al-Hutairshi emphasized the importance of integrating official inspection efforts with community awareness, urging all citizens and residents to report any observations or violations related to product quality or poor hygiene. He stressed that consumer health is a red line that cannot be crossed and that the Ministry will continue its market inspections.
