Abu Dhabi – The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) has announced the precautionary withdrawal of pepperoni beef products from supermarkets amid concerns over potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
The ministry, in collaboration with local regulatory authorities and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, is conducting laboratory examinations to verify the details of the incident.
What Is Listeria?
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can be transmitted during food processing, preparation, or packaging. The infection can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, individuals over 65, and those with weakened immune systems.
Proactive Measures in Place
To ensure consumer safety, MoCCAE has activated the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food (GRASF), which facilitates the immediate exchange of food safety information across GCC countries. This system helps manage alerts and bans on contaminated or mislabeled food products.
Statement from MoCCAE
Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hamadi, Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity, assured the public that the ministry is applying stringent food safety standards for all products, whether locally produced or imported.
"Laboratory and field teams are currently collecting additional samples for testing in specialized labs while ensuring the affected product is promptly removed from UAE markets," said Dr. Al Hamadi.
The ministry urged residents to remain cautious and reassured that all necessary measures are being taken to resolve the issue swiftly.
