Seventy-one tons of unfit salted and smoked fish seized ahead of Sham El-Nessim, Egypt’s minister says

CAIRO – 12 April 2026:  A total of 71 tons and 632 kilograms of unfit salted and smoked fish have been confesicated ahead of Sham El Nasim celebrations [a festival marking the beginning of the spring] which fall on April 13. During this occasion, most Egyptians prefer eating salted and smoked fish.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation announced that the General Authority for Veterinary Services is intensifying inspection and monitoring campaigns targeting outlets that display, sell, and process salted and smoked fish across various governorates. The move comes as part of the state’s efforts to protect public health and ensure food safety.

The campaigns are being carried out in line with directives from Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, to tighten oversight on products of animal origin, particularly during the spring season and Sham El Nessim, when demand for such products rises.

Dr. Hamed Al-Aqnas, Head of the General Authority for Veterinary Services, stated that inspection campaigns conducted last week by veterinary directorates nationwide resulted in the seizure of 71 tons and 632 kilograms of unfit salted and smoked fish. A total of 177 violations were recorded, with legal action taken against offenders.

He affirmed the Authority’s continued commitment to carrying out intensive campaigns in coordination with relevant bodies, alongside stricter market oversight to curb food safety violations.

The Ministry urged citizens to exercise caution and verify product quality before purchasing. It also called on the public to report violations through the Authority’s hotline (19561), available 24/7, to ensure a swift response and safeguard public health.