UAE bans eggs and meat products from this country

UAE bans eggs and meat products from this country

The UAE has banned the import of eggs, meat and meat products from Russia. The move is a precautionary measure in response to the outbreak of a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu (H5N2) at a farm in the central region of Kostromskaya Oblast that led to the death of more than 660,000 birds.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCAE) has also banned the import of all species of domestic and wild live birds, ornamental birds, chicks and non-heat-treated wastes from the affected region and from previously infected provinces (Respublika Kalmykia, Astrakhanskaya Oblast).

However, thermally-treated poultry products (meat and eggs) have been cleared for import from all parts of Russia.

Dr Majid Sultan Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity Sector at the MoCCAE, said: “These measures reiterate the ministry’s keenness in achieving its strategic objectives, including enhancing bio-security levels and eliminating pathogens before they enter the country. In doing so, the ministry prevents the bird flu virus and related risks and impacts on the country’s poultry health and safety, in addition to protecting public health and well-being.”

The MoCCAE “carefully scrutinises documentation accompanying consignments (certificate of origin, health certificate and halal certifications) of food products shipped into the country”.