Controls on the A2: animal welfare and food safety in focus

Controls on the A2: animal welfare and food safety in focus

Today a remarkable step was taken in the Börde district to ensure animal welfare and food safety. The Office for Health and Consumer Protection, together with the police, carried out comprehensive checks on animal and food transport on the A2. Such key inspections have been taking place regularly for over five years and not only demonstrate proactive action, but also support consumers in their safety, because the goal is clear: compliance animal welfare and food hygiene regulations.

A total of twelve vehicles were examined more closely during the checks. These included seven animal transports, which included a colorful mix of piglets, cattle, calves, pigs and poultry. Five food shipments were also thoroughly checked. However, the records of animal transport showed some deficiencies: Insufficient entries in the livestock trade and disinfection control book, inadequate group separations and unclosed manure drains were found. In these cases, administrative offense proceedings will now be initiated.

Inspections show deficiencies

But there were complaints not only about animal transport. Of the food shipments, two had no complaints, while three others had minor deficiencies in the documentation that were discussed on site. This reflects the proper monitoring carried out in accordance with the regulations of the EU and the associated health standards. The EU's legislation takes a comprehensive approach that covers the entire food production and processing chain and adheres to both national and international requirements.

At the press conference, District Administrator Martin Stichnoth emphasized the enormous importance of these regular checks. “They are critical to ensuring both animal and food safety are maintained,” he said. The Börde district plans to continue these key activities in the future in order to keep standards high.

A look outside the box

In the context of these controls, it is interesting to know that the EU also pursues measures in four key areas of food safety: food hygiene, animal health, plant health and the control of contaminants and residues. These aspects not only ensure the quality of our food, but also the well-being of animals and plants in agriculture.

At a time when consumer protection and safety are of paramount importance, it is pleasing to see such initiatives being taken in our region. These efforts are what guarantee us that what we get on the table meets certain standards and is safe.