Luxembourg authorities sound the alarm: massive irregularities in food and alcohol markets

Large-scale surprise inspections of grocery shops and fast-food outlets took place in central and south-eastern Luxembourg on Friday. A joint operation by customs, police and the Inspectorate of Labour and Mines (ITM) uncovered serious violations of health and trade regulations.

At one facility, inspectors confiscated about 600 kilogrammes of fish, meat, vegetables and spices. The reasons for the seizures were numerous: violation of storage conditions, lack of correct labelling, non-compliance with traceability requirements and problems with supply documentation.

In addition to product irregularities, inspectors also found alcoholic beverages that had not undergone mandatory tax registration. Such findings indicate attempts to evade taxation and jeopardise not only the legality of trade, but also the safety of consumers.

Conducting raids in coordination between several agencies allowed for speed and covered a wide range of aspects to be checked, from storage conditions and labour standards to tax compliance.

This operation is a reminder of the importance of strict control of food quality, especially at mass service outlets. The Luxembourg authorities have reaffirmed their determination not to allow negligence or economic fraud to jeopardise public health.