The results of a comprehensive survey conducted by the Field Operations Division of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has confirmed that the Spanish saffron products in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western Region did not contain any banned additives which were detected in some other countries, leading to the recall of the products from the markets in those countries.
Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa, Director of Communication and Community Service at ADFCA, said the inspectors of the Authority gathered random samples of the product in varying quantities. "These samples were subjected to laboratory tests immediately. The tests confirmed they were safe products and did not contain any substance that would threaten public health," he clarified.
"The inspections were carried out soon after reports about health risks from consuming saffron products came out internationally. The lab tests confirmed that all the samples used for the tests were fit for human consumption and in compliance with the approved standards and specifications for saffron. The products posed no threat to human health whatsoever," Al Reyaysa stressed.
He said that ADFCA, by virtue of its membership in the International Food Safety Authorities Network, monitors all food-related issues coming up anywhere in the world and takes prompt measures to preempt harm to the consumers. "We call upon the public to get in touch with the Authority on any food-related issue through the social media channels, ADFCA website, the Abu Dhabi Government's call centre or visits to the Authority's main office," he concluded.