Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has confirmed that the markets of Abu Dhabi emirate were completely free from products containing horse meat or any other types of meat not compliant with the approved standards and specifications.

ADFCA was responding to queries that came in the wake of news reports from some European countries about horse meat being served in the name of beef. The statement said the tests done in ADFCA labs were accurate to the point of detecting even minute quantities of meat species, such as pork.

Mohamed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director of Communication and Community Service at Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, said: "ADFCA has a UKAS accredited molecular biology lab where DNA testing is carried out. The food lab in ADFCA routinely analyzes different food samples to check whether the food contains pork by detecting the presence of pork DNA using techniques called PCR and real-time PCR. ADFCA food lab has a state-of-the-art DNA chip to detect even a small amount of DNA down to few picograms.  DNA tests are very accurate and very sensitive. In addition to the pork DNA detection, ADFCA food lab also performs DNA analysis for other meat species identification and GMO screening. ADFCA food lab always introduces new tests to ultimately ensure food safety and quality and to respond to any food alert."

"ADFCA always ensures that the foods in the markets of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi are compliant with the rules and regulations. If any food is found not compliant with the regulations, it will be withdrawn from the markets with immediate effect. ADFCA inspectors are continuously monitoring the market and found that it is clear from the products that had the horse contamination alert about them," he concluded.