AUV: No decision yet to shut down the business, laboratory analyses pending

The Food and Veterinary Agency (AUV) announced that it has carried out an extraordinary inspection of a business engaged in milk processing and the production of its by-products, to assess whether its activity is being conducted in accordance with the legislation in force and food safety requirements.

In its statement, AUV clarified that at this stage no decision has been made to shut down the business, as the process so far has included a review of documentation and the taking of samples, while the final conclusions will be drawn only after laboratory analyses and in accordance with the legislation in force.

During the inspection, according to AUV, samples were taken of long-life UHT milk, as well as samples of powdered milk and palm oil, which were then sent for laboratory examination.

After reviewing the documentation, physically inspecting the facility and checking the production lines, the Agency said that non-compliance with the legislation in force had been identified.

According to the statement, the operator carries out milk processing activities on the basis of the relevant authorization. In the same facility, meanwhile, there are also lines for the production of products of animal origin and milk-based products, where powdered milk, palm oil and other auxiliary materials are used.

Likewise, during the inspection it was found that the business has at its disposal considerable quantities of raw materials and products, including UHT milk, powdered milk, milk protein, whey and palm oil.

AUV also stressed that the business does not have separate authorization for the production and processing of products based on vegetable fats and milk proteins for the purposes declared on the label, while some parts of the process will be subject to further assessments by the competent authorities.

After the inspection procedure was concluded, the business was issued a decision requiring the implementation of the legislation and the instructions of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development regarding the production and marketing of food products.

The Agency also reiterated that food safety and the protection of public health remain an institutional priority, while further administrative and legal steps will depend on the laboratory results.