Uruguay strengthens health control to maintain its global meat leadership

Uruguay has decided to strengthen its sanitary control mechanisms in the meat industry following an incident that exposed the vulnerability of the export chain to China, its main trading partner. The measure comes after the detection of residues of a veterinary drug in a shipment of beef, which resulted in the return of the shipment and the immediate implementation of new traceability, inspection, and sanction protocols. Although the episode was isolated, its impact resonated throughout the production and export chain. In a country where more than 60% of meat sector exports are destined for China, the preservation of the sanitary reputation has become a strategic priority. The adjustments introduced aim not only to reinforce food safety but also to guarantee the logistical stability of a key sector for the Uruguayan economy. The detection of acaricide residues in a shipment of meat triggered an immediate response from Uruguayan authorities. An increase in the frequency of sampling ...