Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has seized 221 kg of agricultural materials including banned pesticides and unregistered and date-expired seeds that amounting 221 kilograms during a recent campaign launched to inspect agricultural establishments across the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

The campaign, considered to be first of its kind, was a joint effort by Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, Ministry of Environment & Water and Department of Economic Development targeted agricultural nurseries and shops doing their business in various parts of emirate to ensure if they are adhering to the laws framed to regulate handling of agricultural materials such as pesticides, fertilizers, growth promoters, seeds and saplings.

Seventeen inspectors representing the three government entities participated in the inspection awareness campaign which continued for three days in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Western Region.

The inspectors issued notices to 35 facilities while handed over warnings to 21 shops. In addition, a total of 53 shops were imposed fines for violating the rules.

In this regard, Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director of Communication & Community Service Division at ADFCA said:-"The campaign comes as a reflection of ADFCA's keenness on maintaining food safety levels of Abu Dhabi emirate in general and to raise awareness among agricultural establishments in particular"

"The inspection campaign was aimed at curbing the practice of handling certain kind of pesticides which are not registered in UAE. Also, we aimed to eliminate some common violations committed by shop owners such as not keeping proper register for supply and sale of fertilizers and pesticides " Al Rayssi said while explained about the campaign.

According to him, the joint campaign contributed in strengthening cooperation between ADFCA, Ministry of Environment & Water and Department of Economic Development in the area of inspection and control on agricultural facilities.

It is noteworthy that ADFCA has initiated a range of activities and programs in its journey towards realizing a sustainable agricultural sector which cater to emerging needs and dynamics of the sector.

It guarantees economically viable agricultural activities with reasonable income for farmers as well as adopts policies that encourage agricultural farmers to sustain in their fields.

ADFCA also ensures availability of safe and quality agricultural products which grabs best returns in the market while strictly following policies that strengthen efforts to protect natural resources in the emirate.