The inspection, called "Operation Mellis," was carried out in "recent weeks," with agents from the Portuguese food safety authority verifying "compliance with the legal rules applicable to honey and bee product processing establishments," ASAE stated.

Among the objectives of the inspection was also the detection of fraud in the authenticity, labelling, and traceability of these products, within the scope of food safety, ASAE noted.

"As a result of the operation, 17 economic operators were inspected. The investigation carried out by the Specialized Industries Brigade of the Southern Regional Unit also revealed the absence of documentation on honey traceability procedures during the production and packaging phases at an economic operator in the Silves area," they revealed.

The Algarve operator also failed to comply with "general and specific hygiene requirements," and its facilities demonstrated a "lack of implementation of the HACCP system and safety processes."

"Subsequently, the total suspension of economic activity was ordered, with the application of a precautionary measure involving the seizure of approximately three tons of honey, in order to safeguard the quality of the products available on the market," he added.

ASAE (National Health Agency) assured that it will continue its inspection work "throughout the country" with the aim of safeguarding food safety and the public health of consumers in Portugal.