Dairy production standards may be tightened in Armenia

YEREVAN, September 2. /ARKA/. Higher safety criteria in the dairy production sector should be established in Armenia. This was announced at a meeting of the Food Safety Inspectorate of Armenia with the participation of representatives of local dairy processing companies, including cheese producers.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Head of the Inspectorate Hayk Sargsyan, discussed issues of strict compliance with safety standards in production, the importance of implementing the HACCP system ("Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points"), as well as prospects for expanding exports.

Sargsyan emphasized that the Inspectorate, using all available control tools, will consistently ensure that consumers receive high-quality and safe dairy products. In particular, clear instructions were given to comply with product labeling requirements and standards for the use of milk fat substitutes established by the technical regulations of the Customs Union.

The Inspectorate intends to check compliance with these requirements at retail outlets from September 15, and if violations are detected, subsequent control will be carried out at the producers.

Sargsyan also assured that support for businesses will continue - they will be able to ensure the production of safe products in accordance with current standards and increase the competitiveness of Armenian cheese in the international market.

Cheese producers spoke about the problems in the industry and put forward proposals, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue with government agencies.