Before Easter in Cyprus, 800 kg of meat confiscated

In anticipation of the upcoming Easter, the authorities of Cyprus seized about 800 kg of meat products from the market. Minister of Agriculture Maria Panayiotou visited supermarkets before the holiday.

After inspection, the minister informed journalists that as part of planned checks, veterinary services confiscated 800 kg of meat from the entire production chain.

Maria Panayiotou also emphasized that the confiscation was not related to the danger of products to human health but mainly concerned labeling issues. In particular, the minister explained that the confiscations were related to illegal market practices. At the same time, there were no problems with fruits and vegetables during the inspections.

Maria Panayiotou noted that there is a sufficient supply of lamb and goat meat on the market - the main food products for Easter in Cyprus. Additionally, according to the minister, compared to last year, supermarkets have seen a decrease in prices for some products.

She also reminded that, aiming to reduce the high cost of living, the government introduced zero VAT on meat and vegetables.

On the same day, in an interview with the "Cyprus Mail" newspaper, the head of the Butchers Association stated that meat prices have definitely increased compared to last year. According to the source, lamb and goat meat are about 10% more expensive, and pork is approximately 2% more expensive. Chicken prices have actually dropped by about 3-4%.

Responding to the question about the 800 kg of confiscated meat, the head of the association noted that it probably came from unlicensed farms.

• In any case, this is a negligible amount - meat consumption during the Easter holidays usually amounts to 800,000 kg. Around 40,000 animals are slaughtered every Easter, - said the expert.