How to check the quality of meat, vegetables, and dairy products?
Agricultural markets remain a popular shopping destination among Ukrainians. Here you can find a wide selection of products – from vegetables and fruits to meat, fish, and cheeses.
RBK-Ukraine, citing the State Consumer Service, explains how to safely buy products at markets.
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The agency reminds that there are unified safety rules for all markets in Ukraine. These are the Hygiene requirements for agricultural markets, approved by the Ministry of Agrarian Policy order dated April 19, 2024, No. 1279.
What is prohibited from being sold
According to the requirements, it is categorically prohibited to sell products whose safety is not confirmed by laboratory tests.
In particular, the sale of is not allowed:
- food products without confirmation of suitability based on the results of tests conducted by an accredited laboratory operating at the market;
- products with an expired shelf life or “use by” date;
- perishable products without proper refrigeration equipment;
- homemade confectionery and culinary products, as well as semi-finished meat and fish products (in particular, minced meat, cutlets, sausages, aspic);
- homemade meat, fish, dairy, vegetable, berry, and mushroom preserves;
- grain and cereal products contaminated with seeds of harmful weeds or medicinal plants;
- spoiled or rotting vegetables, fruits, berries, and greens.
What to pay attention to for buyers
Experts urge consumers to be attentive while shopping. Before purchasing, it is necessary to carefully inspect the appearance of the products, check their labeling and storage conditions.
Adhering to these rules should ensure the safety of products sold at markets across the country.
Previously, RBK-Ukraine reported on the risks of buying raw meat in unregulated places and safety rules. Ukrainians are urged not to buy meat “from hand,” as this can lead to poisoning without veterinary control. Instead, it is advised to choose official sales points and check storage conditions and product information.
We also discussed how to avoid buying counterfeit products.
