Moroccan Food Safety Office Issues Guidelines for Safe Eid al-Adha Celebrations

According to the director of the food production control department at ONSSA, Abdelghani Azzi, it is necessary to implement the preventive measures dictated on compliance with the rules of hygiene on the occasion of Eid al-Adha 1442. Thus, when purchasing the animal, it is important to ensure that the animal is active and reactive, that it does not show any signs of animal diseases such as coughing, diarrhea, or even an abnormal increase in the volume of the abdomen.

After the purchase, Abdelghani Azzi states that the animal must be "well maintained" and its feed must consist exclusively of coarse feed and clean water. But it must stop feeding at least 12 hours before slaughter. As for the slaughter itself, the official insists that precautions must be taken so as not to contaminate the animal with dirt.

Contrary to what some do, Abdelghani Azzi emphasizes that the intestines must be removed immediately after slaughter in order not to contaminate the meat. "In case of doubt about the sanitary condition of the carcass, you must contact the local veterinary services or contact the ONSSA call center which is available to the consumer from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m."

ONSSA is working, he says, to ensure that the day of the sacrifice takes place under good conditions. This involves the registration with the veterinary services of the units dedicated to the fattening of sheep and goats intended for slaughter for Eid Al-Adha, as well as the supervision of the identification operation of sheep and goats, and the control of food and medicines.

Note that the Office ensures a standby service during the Eid al-Adha period with veterinary doctors and technicians, the list of which is available on the ONSSA website. Citizens can also contact the Office via its Call Center (0801003637) or its social media pages for any question, complaint or concern.