Ministry of Environment: Intensive monitoring campaigns in markets in preparation for Ramadan
The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture announced the intensification of its monitoring efforts in preparation for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, conducting a comprehensive inspection campaign that included public markets and slaughterhouses across the Kingdom. This campaign, which took place during the second week of February, resulted in 17,948 field visits to food establishments to ensure their operational readiness and compliance with the highest safety and quality standards.
Background and importance of seasonal monitoring
These intensified campaigns come in light of the great importance of Ramadan in Saudi society, as the holy month witnesses a noticeable shift in consumption patterns and a significant increase in demand for food products, especially meat, vegetables, and fruits. These regulatory measures are a key part of the government's strategy to ensure food security and protect consumer health during this crucial period. Historically, relevant government agencies have consistently tightened controls before religious and national holidays to ensure market stability, the availability of essential goods at high quality and reasonable prices, and to prevent unfair business practices.
Campaign results and its direct impact
The ministry revealed that inspection tours, involving 494 inspectors, resulted in 2,896 violations and warnings being issued to establishments that failed to comply with health and safety requirements. Field teams also identified and destroyed more than 58,500 kilograms (58.5 tons) of vegetables, fruits, meat, poultry, and fish that were found to be unfit for human consumption and in violation of approved standards. Regarding slaughterhouses, a total of 111,322 sheep, cattle, and camels were slaughtered during the campaign period, with emphasis placed on the application of veterinary inspection before and after slaughter to ensure meat safety. To further enhance the safety of agricultural products, 1,482 samples were collected for testing to ensure they were free of harmful pesticide residues.
Strategic and awareness dimensions
The Ministry's efforts are not limited to oversight and penalties, but also extend to awareness and community outreach. The campaign saw the participation of 31 associations specializing in food preservation, aiming to reduce food waste and direct surplus food to those in need. In addition, 368 awareness and educational campaigns were conducted to promote sound health practices among beneficiaries and service providers in markets and slaughterhouses. This comprehensive campaign aims to improve the level of services provided, ensure efficient fulfillment of increasing demand, and enhance consumer confidence in products sold, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals of improving quality of life and strengthening food security.
