The Food and Economic Security Authority has announced the seizure of 124 tonnes of table olives in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz, Évora district, due to lack of hygiene and operator licensing.

In a statement, the Food and Economic Security Authority (ASAE) informs that the activity of the operator has been suspended and a process of administrative misconduct has been initiated, due to non-compliance with hygiene requirements and lack of control of water for human consumption, licensing and traceability.

In addition to the table olive, worth 43 thousand euros, three items of weighing equipment were also seized that were not “properly calibrated,” he said.

According to the ASAE, the operation was initiated, in recent days, by elements of the Évora Operational Unit that was targeting an olive recipient, located in the municipality of Reguengos de Monsaraz.

The inspectors found that the space where the reception and conservation of table olives was done, was not “properly licensed” and did not have “the minimum hygienic conditions,” ASAE said in the statement.

In addition, he added, “water from a hole without any control” was used. The presence of the Public Health Unit of Évora was therefore requested at the site, who testified that it was a danger to public health.