The city's environment department is intensifying market monitoring in preparation for Ramadan
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in Madinah continues to implement its seasonal operational plan, intensifying its field and monitoring campaigns in public markets and slaughterhouses in the region, as part of proactive preparations for the holy month of Ramadan. These efforts aim to ensure that establishments and workers comply with regulations and ensure the availability and safety of food products, thus achieving the highest quality standards for consumers during Ramadan.
In the context of the field results of these campaigns, recent inspection tours revealed a number of health and regulatory violations. Specialized teams confiscated and destroyed products of unknown origin and others showing signs of spoilage and unfit for human consumption. The seized items included 1,195 kilograms of fruits and vegetables, in addition to 133 kilograms of spoiled fish. Strict legal measures were applied to the violators in accordance with the Ministry's approved schedules of violations and penalties.
These inspections are of particular strategic importance in the Madinah region, given the high population density and the increasing number of visitors, pilgrims, and worshippers at the Prophet's Mosque during Ramadan. Through this rigorous monitoring, the Ministry works to strengthen food security and protect public health by ensuring that agricultural produce is free of pesticide residues through sampling and laboratory testing, and by monitoring agricultural licenses and records to guarantee traceability from farm to consumer.
In addition to its oversight role, the ministry branch places great emphasis on awareness and social responsibility. As part of its seasonal campaign, it strives to promote a culture of responsible consumption and reduce food waste in public markets. This is achieved through the distribution of informational brochures and by encouraging shoppers and merchants to adopt responsible consumption practices. The branch has also established coordination channels with charitable organizations specializing in food preservation to ensure that safe and edible products—which are being withheld for regulatory, not health, reasons—reach those in need. This strengthens the values of social solidarity and reduces food loss, aligning with national objectives.
