BITAM, Gabon — In a move to reinforce food safety standards, the Gabonese Agency for Food Security (AGASA) has overseen the destruction of a significant quantity of spoiled food products in Bitam, located in the Woleu-Ntem province.
The operation, conducted in various shops and stores within the commune, resulted in the seizure of eggs, frozen goods, beverages, rice, flour, and poultry that were deemed unsuitable for consumption. Several unscrupulous economic operators were apprehended by relevant authorities. Laetitia Ntsame, the provincial head of AGASA in Woleu-Ntem, emphasized the importance of this action in line with directives from the highest authorities to bolster consumer health safety. “.
The health of Gabonese citizens is a top priority. We must ensure that products offered for sale meet the required standards, “she stated.
The presence of the interim prefect, Blaise Ondo Obiang, customs agents, defense and security forces, and the mayor of Bitam, Jules Mbele Asseko, highlighted the collaborative effort to uphold food safety standards. This operation follows previous incidents where AGASA has taken decisive action to protect public health.
In February 2026, the agency destroyed 28 tons of spoiled fish, including imported products, in Owendo due to a breakdown in the cold chain. Similarly, in January 2026, AGASA seized spoiled meat products in Libreville, reflecting its heightened vigilance in safeguarding public health and ensuring food safety.
The recent seizure and destruction of spoiled food in Bitam are indicative of the ongoing challenges faced by AGASA in preventing the distribution of unsafe food products. These actions are crucial for public health and consumer protection, as noted by Marie-Claire Mba, a food safety expert based in Libreville.
As AGASA continues its efforts to ensure food safety, the importance of maintaining proper food handling and storage practices remains a critical challenge.
The destruction of spoiled food products in Bitam serves as a stark reminder of the need to address these challenges to protect public health and prevent food waste.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
