In a significant move to safeguard public health, Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CFS) has announced the suspension of poultry imports from the Ostrów Wielkopolskie Region in Poland. This decision, made public on Friday, follows a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) regarding an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in the region.
The CFS emphasized that the suspension applies to all poultry products, including both meat and eggs, as a precautionary measure against the spread of this infectious disease. A spokesperson for the CFS stated that the health and safety of the public in Hong Kong is the top priority, and this action reflects the department’s commitment to maintaining high food safety standards.
According to data from Hong Kong’s Census and Statistics Department, the territory imported approximately 1,620 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland during the first half of the current year. This volume underscores the significance of the Polish poultry market to Hong Kong’s food supply.
In response to the outbreak, the CFS has reached out to Polish authorities to gather more information and will continue to monitor updates from the WOAH and other relevant health organizations. The spokesperson reiterated that the CFS is prepared to take further actions as necessary, depending on the evolving situation regarding the avian influenza outbreak.
Avian influenza, particularly the H5N1 strain, poses serious risks not only to poultry but also to public health, as it can potentially be transmitted to humans. The CFS is taking this proactive approach to mitigate any risks associated with imported poultry products from affected regions.
This suspension is part of a broader strategy employed by health authorities globally to manage and contain outbreaks of avian diseases. Countries often implement import bans from regions experiencing such outbreaks to prevent the spread of the virus and protect their poultry industries.
As the situation develops, the CFS will keep the public informed about any changes to the import status of poultry products and any other related health advisories. Stakeholders in the poultry industry, both in Hong Kong and abroad, will be closely watching these developments, as they could have significant implications for trade and food safety.
In light of this suspension, consumers in Hong Kong may see changes in the availability of poultry products in local markets. The CFS encourages residents to remain informed and to follow any health advisories issued by the department regarding poultry consumption and food safety practices.
This incident highlights the interconnectedness of global food supply chains and the importance of rapid response measures to protect public health. As avian influenza outbreaks continue to occur in various parts of the world, health authorities will likely maintain strict surveillance and control measures to ensure the safety of poultry products.
In the meantime, the CFS reassures the public that it is diligently monitoring the situation and will take all necessary actions to ensure that Hong Kong remains a safe environment for consumers. The department is committed to transparency and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
As the poultry industry navigates these challenges, ongoing collaboration between health authorities and industry stakeholders will be essential in managing the risks associated with avian influenza and ensuring the continued safety of poultry products for consumers.
