Dubai Customs bans entry of spoiled meat into local market

Dubai Customs in collaboration with Dubai Municipality banned entry of one tone of spoiled meat into the country contained in a shipment coming from an African country , which found to be unsuitable for human consumption when tested. 

 “Customs inspectors at Dubai International Airport Free Zone Inspection Center whilst checking a shipment of meat suspected of its suitability with a pervasive smell emitting therefrom. The shipment was referred to the Food Control Office of Dubai Municipality located at  Dubai Flowers Center being the competent agency in controlling imported food stuff. Upon testing a sample of the shipment, which weighs 1000 kg containing 147 pieces (carcasses) of goat meat, it was reported to be fully spoiled  and unsuitable for human consumption and should therefore be banned from entering the country”, said Omer Al Mehairi, Senior Manager of Air Cargo Operations at Dubai Customs.

A seizure report on the incident was prepared together with destroying the shipment in liaison with the Food Control Department at Dubai Municipality. 

The incident comes at a time while the people of UAE are preparing for the holy month of Ramadan and the import of large quantity of different food stuff brands. 

Lauding the cooperation with Dubai Municipality, Al Mehairi affirmed that “All  imported brands of food stuff are subject to strict customs inspection and control since Dubai Customs is the society first defense line against any threats to its members` health and safety.” 

Al Mehairy pointed out to the inspectors` skills who are continuously subject to specialized training on how such shipments can be handled since they directly affect man`s health stressing on the  necessity to have healthy storage facilities for food stuff with the importing companies and means of transport.