The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has stated that in regards to what has been circulated about Egyptian frozen strawberry products and their relationship to Hepatitis A, the ministry had coordinated with relevant food control authorities (Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, Dubai Municipality, Sharjah Municipality, Municipality and Planning Department in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain Municipality, Ras Al Khaimah Municipality and Fujairah Municipality) to ensure the safety of the product, and coordinated with the Ministry of Health and health authorities in the UAE to monitor any case of hepatitis illness caused by eating contaminated food.

MOCCAE had issued a circular to specialized local authorities to tighten control procedures on frozen strawberries imported from Egypt in order to avoid the entry of any contaminated products that pose a risk to the consumer in the country. Authorities also collected samples of seven different brands of Egyptian frozen strawberries in UAE markets to conduct laboratory tests and the results assured that these products conform to UAE health and safety standards and they are free of any contaminants or disease causing microbes, including Hepatitis A virus, and they are safe for human consumption.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment emphasizes that all food products in the UAE, whether locally produced or imported, are safe for consumption as they are strictly monitored by the ministry and relevant local authorities.

MOCCAE reaffirms that there is constant coordination with competent authorities in the UAE to ensure the safety of all imported and traded food products. The ministry reiterates that all imported and traded products undergo a strict control system in accordance with the best international practices at all stages of the food chain - including conducting of laboratory tests as per the risk assessment system, and an early notification system of foods that pose a risk to consumers’ health.