The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has issued a resolution detailing the controls governing the regulation of the ADAFSA Board of Directors on food and fodder sampling for control and inspection in Abu Dhabi to regulate sampling procedures for control and inspection.
The resolution, which was issued by His Excellency Saeed Al Bahri Salem Al Ameri, Director General of ADAFSA, classifies samples into two categories based on the circumstances and results desired. The first category includes objective samples taken for regular control, data collection, or conformity assessment. The second category comprises selective samples taken to document violations observed by inspectors or to provide a representative unit for laboratory examination.
The resolution specified the packaging and tools for sampling, ensuring suitability for chemical or bacteriological analysis. It also outlined criteria for determining sample size, methods of sending samples to the laboratory, transportation and storage procedures, and procedures for re-analysis upon request or with clear technical justification.
As for the requirements for sampling, the resolution states that it is done randomly or selectively as needed, with the need to follow special precautions to prevent sample contamination or changes in its properties and using appropriate sample containers and tools.
The resolution states that the sample size must be sufficient to perform the necessary laboratory tests, in addition to dividing the sample into two parts. The first part is sent to the laboratory and the second is kept at the facility. It also states that a record must be kept for each sampling operation and the information that must be recorded on each sample must be specified.
The resolution grants the food establishment the right to request re-analysis of a sample if the result is unsatisfactory. It further allows ADAFSA to take additional samples and re-examine them if there are technical justifications, with the examination to be conducted in a neutral, accredited laboratory at the establishment's expense. This result would be considered final.
ADAFSA confirmed that the resolution comes within the framework of its commitment to updating the legislative system that supports the authority's field of work, ensuring the safety and quality of food and fodder throughout all stages of the food chain. The resolution also aims to help ensure that food and fodder comply with health and environmental standards, technical regulations and standard specifications in the country, strengthening the food security system in aspects related to food safety and animal health.
ADAFSA stated that the development and modernisation of the food-related legislative system is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening the food security system in Abu Dhabi and ensuring that consumers have access to safe and healthy food that meets the highest international standards.
The resolution on regulating the procedures for sampling food and fodder for inspection and control purposes in Abu Dhabi aims to regulate this critical process to ensure the safety of food and fodder for consumers, protect animal health and public health, enhance consumer confidence in food products, and ensure fair trade practices in the markets.
