Intensive monitoring campaign in Qassim in preparation for Ramadan
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the Qassim region, in cooperation with the branch of the National Center for Plant Pest and Animal Disease Prevention and Control (Wiqa), announced the implementation of a comprehensive field inspection campaign that included 731 visits to markets and slaughterhouses in the region. These efforts are part of intensive preparations for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, aimed at ensuring food safety and the application of the highest public health standards.
The campaign focused on verifying establishments' compliance with health and veterinary requirements and raising the level of oversight of food products offered for sale. The inspections resulted in 155 violations and warnings, the confiscation of 15 products that did not meet standards, and the submission of 130 samples to the pesticide residue laboratory to ensure they were free of harmful substances. The oversight also included monitoring slaughtering operations at abattoirs, where a total of 6,479 head of livestock and poultry were slaughtered, with 230 cases of total or partial condemnation of carcasses unfit for human consumption.
General context and importance of seasonal monitoring
These inspection campaigns are particularly important before and during Ramadan, when demand for food products increases significantly, potentially leading some suppliers and retailers to compromise on safety and quality standards. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is proactively working across the Kingdom to enhance food security and protect consumers from harmful practices such as improper storage or the sale of expired or unidentified products. These measures are an integral part of the government's oversight system, which aims to safeguard the health and well-being of citizens and residents.
Local impact and its connection to the Kingdom's Vision 2030
Locally, these inspection tours in the Qassim region, known as one of the Kingdom's most important food baskets, contribute to strengthening consumer confidence in local products and regulated markets. They also support compliant businesses and ensure fair competition. These efforts align with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes improving the quality of life and well-being of citizens, with food safety being a cornerstone of achieving this objective. The implementation of rigorous regulatory systems reflects the Kingdom's commitment to developing its service and regulatory sectors and elevating them to the ranks of developed nations.
In addition to regulatory measures, participating teams conducted 12 awareness campaigns targeting both facility workers and consumers, aiming to raise health and environmental awareness and clarify best practices for food handling. These integrated efforts underscore the pivotal role of government agencies in protecting public health and ensuring a healthy and safe Ramadan.
