Turning to local produce the best guarantee against food risks, says ADFCA

The E-Coli outbreak that rocked world food markets and caused the death of dozens of people and severe illness for thousands in various European countries once again confirms the importance and urgency of turning to local vegetables and fruits for consumption, said Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority in a statement.

"The vegetables and fruits from the farms in the country are much safer and subject to much more rigorous monitoring than imported ones. First of all, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority or its affiliates are involved in all stages of planning, cultivation, harvest and marketing of local produce, guaranteeing that safety measures are implemented in the strictest possible manner," pointed out Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa.

Al Reyaysa said the farmers are required to adhere to the best international practices. "Their adherence to these practices is made a principal yardstick in deciding their entitlement to government assistance. The rules and regulations in force govern every aspect of farming, transportation of produce, storing and sale. We leave no scope for any food risks as far as local produce are concerned," Al Reyaysa explained.

"This is not to suggest we are lax in monitoring imported foods. The point is reliance on locally produced vegetables and fruits drastically reduce the margin of error and risks and leaves the consumer in peace of mind. While saying this, we would also like to assure once again that the markets in Abu Dhabi are totally free from E-Coli and all the measures have been taken to ensure it will remain that way," he added.

The Ministry of Environment and Water stated that vegetables suspected to be affected with E-Coli had been banned and safety certificates from importing countries asked for. Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority held a meeting with the Health Authority to review the post-E Coli outbreak situation and concluded that the measures implemented in the emirate are better than the same anywhere else in the world. The meetings agreed to continuously monitor and review the situation so that no untoward incident happens here.