Health Concerns Raised Over Algerian Dates Imported to Morocco

Dr. Hassan Chtibi criticizes the quality of Algerian dates available on the Moroccan market, citing health risks for consumers. In a statement to Alayam24, he says he fears the presence of a high level of pesticides in these dates, which could affect the health of Moroccan consumers. Like other imported dates, Algerian dates may also contain traces of pests or potentially harmful viruses that could spread rapidly throughout Morocco if preventive measures are not taken.

The president of the Consumer Protection Association also mentioned the poor storage and transport conditions of these dates, which can lead to food poisoning or digestive diseases. To mitigate these risks, Chtibi stressed the need to improve local date production. This involves sustained investment in agricultural research and development, which will create more pest and disease-resistant date varieties, and the adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques aimed at reducing dependence on pesticides.

He also emphasized the importance of supporting and encouraging farmers to adopt modern agricultural methods, optimize irrigation techniques and promote organic farming in order to strengthen the quality of harvests. He did not fail to call on the government to strengthen controls on all varieties of dates, imported or local, in order to protect the health of consumers. Chtibi also called for awareness campaigns to give consumers criteria to distinguish good quality dates from questionable ones.