Villa Traful supermarket fined $19.7 million for expired products

Consumer protection authorities in Neuquén have issued a fine of approximately $19.7 million to a supermarket in Villa Traful after discovering more than 1,400 expired products. The inspection, conducted in late June, also covered San Martín de los Andes, Junín de los Andes, and Villa La Angostura.

Among the seized items were dairy products, pasta, frozen goods, juices, and various deli meats. Officials noted that some cold cuts, such as ham and sausage, had expiration dates dating back to 2024. Pablo Tomasini, the provincial director of Consumer Protection, emphasized the health risks, noting that improper consumption of such products can lead to serious conditions like listeriosis and botulism.

The heavy fine was determined based on three factors: the risk to public health, the high volume of expired goods, and the fact that the establishment is a repeat offender. Authorities also warned against fraudulent practices involving the re-packaging of soft cheeses to hide original expiration dates.