Chile and Argentina intensify meat safety inspections

Health and agricultural authorities in Chile and Argentina have intensified inspections of meat products and commercial establishments ahead of the Fiestas Patrias celebrations. In Chile, the Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) and various regional health secretariats (Seremi de Salud) are conducting joint operations across multiple regions, including Tarapacá, Aysén, Atacama, O’Higgins, and Chillán.

These inspections focus on ensuring compliance with the Meat Law, verifying product traceability, proper labeling, and maintaining the cold chain. In Tarapacá, authorities reported seizing over 2,000 kilograms of products, including 500 kilograms of meat and 1,000 kilograms of expired flour and margarine. In O’Higgins, officials are also monitoring alcohol sales to prevent the consumption of unsafe beverages.

In Argentina, a major operation in Viedma resulted in the seizure and destruction of approximately 3,450 kilograms of meat from 25 different establishments. The seized goods, which included beef, poultry, and pork, lacked sanitary stamps and showed signs of clandestine slaughter and improper storage alongside other food items.

Authorities are urging the public to purchase meat only from authorized establishments to avoid risks associated with cattle theft (abigeato) and foodborne illnesses.