🇬🇦GabonCentral Africa
Gabonese Food Safety Agency closes 12 of 13 cassava workshops at PK8 market due to severe health violations
via Gabon Review1 min read
The Gabonese Food Safety Agency Agasa announced the results of a national inspection of fermented cassava sales points on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. At the PK8 market, 12 out of 13 workshops inspected were closed due to serious health standard violations. Agasa's nationwide control operation revealed numerous deficiencies in the commercialization of fermented cassava, a staple for many Gabonese. The situation at the PK8 market was deemed critical, leading to the closure of nearly all workshops due to multiple irregularities and health risks to consumers. Agasa's inspection teams found unsuitable storage conditions, poor hygiene in handling and distribution areas, and the use of low-quality bags. Additionally, runoff water was present in storage areas, promoting product contamination, and the fermented cassava paste was inadequately packaged. Agasa stated that these shortcomings pose a direct threat to public health, exposing consumers to contamination and food spoilage risks. By closing almost all workshops at PK8, the agency aims to penalize industry players and firmly remind them to comply with current health standards. Agasa also urged all operators to immediately conform to regulatory requirements.
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