فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Amid recent controversy surrounding poisoning cases linked to the consumption of watermelon, the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) has broken its silence to provide important clarifications aimed at reassuring Moroccan consumers.
In a press statement, ONSSA confirmed that the production and marketing of watermelon are subject to a strict, multi-level control system that ensures the safety and quality of the product from start to finish. The monitoring process begins with obtaining prior authorization for the use of pesticides, continues with regular laboratory testing, and concludes with quality control of the product in both local and international markets after it is released for sale.
ONSSA explained that pesticides are only used after a comprehensive scientific evaluation that takes into account environmental, chemical, and biological data, with the goal of protecting consumer health and guaranteeing the quality of agricultural products.
The office added that Morocco has adopted an advanced national system for monitoring agricultural products, especially those considered sensitive, by precisely defining the permitted pesticide doses and continuously following scientific developments in this field.
Since 2018, 63 active substances have been withdrawn from the national market for failing to meet safety standards, resulting in the removal of 411 commercial products that relied on them, reflecting the authorities’ commitment to consumer safety.
ONSSA also affirmed that its services continue to conduct regular monitoring and analysis to ensure the availability of high-quality agricultural products in the markets, in compliance with health and safety standards.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that there is no cause for concern regarding the consumption of watermelon or any other products subject to regulatory oversight, urging consumers to trust the national food safety system.
