As part of the control actions ordered by the leadership of the National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA), veterinary and food safety inspectors carried out, in stages, thematic inspections nationwide in units within the food sector. The actions targeted the production and marketing of food products of animal and non-animal origin, with a focus on compliance with hygiene, food safety, and consumer protection standards.

Between February 2–6, 2026, a total of 1,605 supermarkets and hypermarkets were inspected, with evaluations covering hygiene conditions, traceability, labeling, storage, and the maintenance of the cold chain throughout the entire commercial flow.

Following the inspections, ANSVSA applied 517 administrative sanctions totaling 5,521,500 lei, as well as 147 warning penalties. At the same time, 3 Activity Suspension Orders and 2 Activity Prohibition Orders were issued. Inspectors also ordered the official seizure of 980.52 kg of non-compliant food products, directed for disposal, with an estimated value of 11,185 lei.

The main non-compliances identified concerned deficiencies in the sanitation of spaces and equipment, damaged packaging, interruptions in the cold chain, the absence of self-control programs, improper product storage, lack of identification elements, and incorrect handling of fresh products.

During the control actions, samples were collected for laboratory analysis. A total of 66 microbiological samples, 58 samples for residue determination, and 67 samples for other parameters, including heavy metals and genetically modified organisms, were analyzed. According to ANSVSA, all results obtained complied with the legislation in force.

ANSVSA President Dr. Alexandru Bociu stated that supermarkets and hypermarkets play an important role in ensuring food safety, and strict compliance with regulations is mandatory. Control actions will continue in other sectors of the food industry in order to maintain a high standard of public health protection.

ANSVSA reminds consumers that complaints regarding food safety can be submitted to the free Call Center at 0800.826.787.