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The Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority (CAFIA) has repeatedly inspected whether producers observe so called “Meat Decree” (amendment to the Decree of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic No. 326/2001 Coll.) which last autumn laid down the criteria for particular meat products. According to this Decree, producers who want to label their products with a particular name (e.g. “špekáček”, “vysočina”, “herkules”, but also for ex. “beef in own juice” etc.) have to observe determined sensory requirements, composition of the product, and other physical and chemical properties.

In the trade network, CAFIA inspectors assessed on-the-spot the observance of sensory requirements at 293 samples of various non-perishable and heat-treated meat products, out of which 10 (i.e. 3.4%) did not comply with prescribed requirements.

On the basis of experience from previous inspections and continuous screening in the field, inspectors chose another 36 samples (including meat tins) that were taken for laboratory analysis. Such analysis enables to prove the actual composition of products and their other physical and chemical properties. It was identified that in case of 20 samples (i.e. 55.5%) producers had broken the regulations, sometimes even in more parameters. The analysis proved that banned poultry meat is present in 12 samples, 6 samples has lower content of net muscle protein, 4 samples shows lower meat content than determined limit, 1 sample contains non-complying amount of fat, and that so called “water activity” is not in compliance in 2 samples. All these deficiencies are regarded as consumer deception. The inspectors banned further placing into circulation of non-complying products and on outlets inspected will be imposed fines in administrative procedure. CAFIA transmitted the outcome of inspection to the State Veterinary Office which will complete the investigation in producers´ establishments. The State Veterinary Office can intervene at such producers who really do mislead consumers.

This planned inspection was a follow-up to a number of previous actions with similar focus. The results demonstrated that producers´ tendency not to comply with criteria laid down by the Decree, increases. CAFIA will therefore continue to check the observance of regulations relating to the meat products sold in shops.

Table with the outcome of the inspection and Decree No. 326/2001 Coll., can be found at CAFIA website www.szpi.gov.cz (Czech version only).