Project background:

There is an increasing demand on the EU market for dairy product of sheep and goat milk. As the Republic of Moldova applied to be added on the list of third countries from which imports of dairy products into the EU are authorized, SAFOSO was mandated to assess the compliance with the EU food safety and hygiene requirements of sheep and goat milk dairy processors. In addition, assistance was requested for the compilation of the national residue control plan for sheep and goat milk in the county.

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Our work

SAFOSO conducted two missions to Moldova. During the first mission, on-site trainings for dairy processors and inspectors of the national competent authority were delivered. The training comprised lectures on the EU food safety and export requirements for processing companies and producers. Field trips to selected processors and farms were organized to demonstrate how these requirements are assessed.

During the second mission, 4 dairy processing companies and 3 farms were visited and assessed regarding their compliance with the EU food hygiene and safety regulations. Individual actions plans with detailed assessments and listing of current gaps, including a list of the necessary investment needs were prepared for each of the companies.

In addition, SAFOSO provided assistance to compile the national residue control program for sheep and goat milk.

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Results

Processors gained an improved understanding of the requirements and prerequisites for the export of their dairy products to the EU. With the individual action plans provided, they received a guidance document on how to fill the gaps to achieve full compliance with EU requirements. By assisting in the development  of the national residue control plan, the staff of the National Food Safety Authority gained a better understanding how to achieve risk-based sampling for specific residues.

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