Dubai, UAE — The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has ordered the withdrawal of a brand of pepperoni beef from supermarkets across the UAE. This precautionary measure comes as the product is being investigated for potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that poses health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.
Ongoing Investigation
The ministry has yet to disclose the specific brand involved in the incident but assured the public that the product is being removed from the market while further laboratory tests are conducted to verify the situation. Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hamadi, Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity at MOCCAE, emphasized the importance of food safety and mentioned that the ministry is working with local regulatory authorities and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (FDA) to manage the issue.
Collaboration with GCC Countries
The ministry is also utilizing the Gulf Rapid Alert System for Food (GRASF), a system that enables the swift exchange of information regarding food safety risks across GCC countries. This ensures that preventive measures can be taken quickly, protecting public health in the region.
MOCCAE continues to prioritize consumer protection, and additional samples are being tested in specialized labs. The ministry remains committed to ensuring all food products meet the highest safety standards.
