Food Safety Surveys Conducted at 34 Food Facilities and Educational Centers during Sunbula

During Sunbula 1405, the Directorate of Risk Analysis, Food Monitoring and Standards Development of the Ministry of Public Health conducted field surveys and assessments at 13 food production facilities and the canteens of 21 private schools and educational centers across various districts of Kabul City.

As part of these monitoring activities, four food production factories were inspected, and a number of substandard raw materials and food products were quarantined. These included approximately 500 kilograms of dried sour cherries, dozens of sacks of expired raw materials, and more than 2,800 bottles of mineral water and non-alcoholic beverages. Samples of suspected products were also sent to the laboratory for quality and safety testing.

As part of capacity-building efforts, food safety training sessions were conducted for 72 school teachers and employees of food production facilities.

Furthermore, technical studies were conducted on the risks associated with Shigella bacteria, arsenic, and pesticide residues. Draft standards for sausages, coffee, ice cream, children's confectionery, biscuits, cakes, and several other food products were also reviewed and approved by the relevant technical committees.

These activities were carried out to strengthen food safety standards, prevent the distribution of substandard food products, and protect public health, particularly the health of students.