The National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC) conducted, between March 30 and April 3, 2026, a large-scale nationwide inspection campaign targeting food safety and compliance with commercial regulations. According to official data published by the institution, more than 1,700 economic operators were inspected, both in physical locations and online, in the context of expanded oversight of digital commerce.

The results indicate a high level of non-compliance in the food sector, particularly in the area of products of animal origin. ANPC imposed 2,384 administrative fines totaling over 6.3 million lei, as well as 796 warnings. In addition, complementary measures were ordered, including the permanent withdrawal from sale of non-compliant products worth over 160,000 lei and the temporary suspension of sales for products valued at over 3.2 million lei. The activity of 18 economic operators was temporarily suspended until deficiencies were remedied.

The analysis of non-compliance highlights recurring structural issues. Cases were identified of lamb meat being sold in unauthorized spaces, the use of equipment with advanced wear and deposits, as well as failure to comply with storage temperature requirements for perishable products. Furthermore, inspectors found animal-origin products prepared under improper conditions, including visible contamination, cracked or impurity-laden eggs, and frozen products with excessive ice buildup, indicating possible interruptions in the cold chain.

Deficiencies were also reported regarding the quality of raw materials and finished products, including the use of thermally degraded cooking oils and the sale of plant-based products with diminished quality. These aspects point to issues both in processing and in storage and distribution, with a direct impact on consumer safety.

The ANPC’s action confirms increased pressure on operators in the food industry, in the context of intensified inspections and expanded monitoring in the online environment. For processors and retailers, the results underline the need to strengthen internal controls, traceability, and strict compliance with hygiene and storage conditions. In the coming period, such actions are expected to continue, against the backdrop of rising food safety requirements at both national and European levels.