RIYADH: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority on Thursday warned consumers not to eat chicken Frankfurt sausages manufactured in the Kingdom by the Altarouti brand, after factory inspections revealed they were contaminated with potentially harmful bacteria.
In a message posted on social media platform X, the authority said: “The affected product is packaged in 12-piece packs, with an expiration date of 05/04/2026 and batch number (L2216.ZCN.F).
“Laboratory tests conducted by the SFDA confirmed the product is contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which can pose a health risk to consumers.”
The authority advised the public not to consume the product and to dispose of it immediately. It said action has been taken to withdraw it from stores and halt the factory’s production lines. In addition, it is taking legal action against the manufacturer, and noted that violations of the food safety laws and regulations can result in penalties of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of SR10 million ($2.7 million) or both.
The contamination was discovered during inspections of food factories, which the authority said it carries out to ensure food safety, deter violations and prevent the use of products that might pose a risk to consumers.
Officials from the authority told Arab News: “The health and safety of citizens and residents in Saudi Arabia are our top priority.
“Our inspection and monitoring programs are designed to proactively identify and address potential risks. This is a core part of our strategy to ensure that all products, whether locally manufactured or imported, comply with national regulations and international standards.”
The authority said it will not tolerate any food-safety violations that might threaten the health of citizens and residents, and continues to enhance safety standards and take action against anyone found to be violating them.
It encouraged members of the public to report any food-related concerns by contacting the SFDA call center on 19999.
