WILLEMSTAD - An importing company located in the industrial areas of Seru Loraweg recently underwent an inspection as part of the "Warenlandsverordening" framework. The Health Inspection conducted the necessary assessments, while the Department of Technical Hygiene Affairs (THZ) was not involved in this specific control. Following the inspection, the Health Protection Inspector sent a detailed report to the company outlining the tasks performed. 

During the inspection, a separate section was designated for products found to be non-compliant, including a quantity of "appelbier" (apple beer) and expired peanut cakes. Additionally, expired boxes of cheese were discovered in a freezer, having exceeded their expiration dates by two days. The company clarified that these items were not intended for sale. However, as they were still deemed suitable for human consumption following a visual inspection by the inspector, they were allowed to distribute them among their employees. The expired peanut cakes were donated to livestock, as per previous agreements to collect suitable products for their consumption. 

In addition to the product assessment, the Health Protection Inspector took note of a registry documenting establishments that purchase from the company in question. The inspection revealed that the products and their packaging were in good condition, with no observable damage. It was further determined that the "appelbier" and cheese exhibited no defects that could endanger public health. Consequently, based on these findings, the Health Protection Inspector expressed agreement with the company's handling of distributing the products both to their employees and to livestock. 

Article 8 of the "Warenlandsverordening" prohibits the preparation or sale of edible or drinkable items that could pose health or safety risks due to defects. The Health Inspection and THZ recognize two types of inspections: inspections conducted upon request and inspections carried out during the confiscation of products. It is crucial to note that the sale of products with expired expiration dates is strictly forbidden. Confiscated items are subject to the regulations outlined in the "Landsbesluit 2003." Confiscation occurs in cases where: 

Edible or drinkable items are damaged. 

The Health Inspection has evidence or reasonable suspicion that edible or drinkable items with expired expiration dates were deliberately placed for sale. 

Products with expired expiration dates, but still suitable for human consumption, may be granted to individuals and/or institutions. Items unfit for human consumption but appropriate for animal consumption can be given to livestock. However, items unsuitable for both human and animal consumption must be destroyed. These procedures align with the principles set forth in the "Landsbesluit 2003," which have been consistently applied.