An audit in Iceland has found gaps in produce controls that may increase the risk of unsafe products entering the market.
Iceland was advised to strengthen its system for official controls on producers of cut fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, and sprouts.
Iceland is part of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). The EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) monitors how the country implements European Economic Area (EEA) rules on food and feed safety, animal health, and welfare.
The audit in September 2025 revealed that the system for official control of food of non-animal origin is generally functioning, and approved establishments are subject to regular controls.
However, it also found significant weaknesses, including insufficient enforcement of corrective actions for non-compliances and a lack of coordination and oversight between central and local authorities.
Sampling and analysis procedures were called inadequate by auditors. They said pooling of samples, a lack of verifying the equivalence of alternative analytical methods and incorrect sampling practices for sprouts and ready-to-eat vegetables risks compromising the reliability of microbiological testing.
Four recommendations included improving the follow-up of official controls to make sure that operators rectify non-compliances in an adequate manner, and ensuring that sampling and analysis for microbial safety are appropriate and representative.
Findings by sector
Auditors found that none of the local authorities consider the outcome of previous controls or the business’ past record of compliance with relevant legislation when determining the frequency of official controls.
One primary producer of leafy greens and berries had non-compliances in a report from 2021, and the next scheduled audit was in 2025. Local officials had not followed-up the findings after the inspection in 2021 as required by EU regulations.
One firm had the same non-compliance in three visits in 2021, 2023, and 2025, without it being escalated to a serious issue with the related enforcement actions. Another had the same recurring problem in inspections from 2022, 2024, and 2025.
In response, Icelandic authorities said the main reason for such delays is believed to be a lack of staff resources. A workshop in the second half of 2026 will assess possible measures to take, with work completed by the end of 2027.
At a sprout producer, the audit team observed missing labels on some bags of seeds, compromising traceability. Sampling procedures were also not correct, which may result in unsafe sprouts being placed on the market, said auditors.
Icelandic officials said the non-compliances are being followed up on, and the business will be inspected every three months for the next year. A guidance document on sprout production requirements is expected to be completed by the end of June, followed by a training course for inspectors.
One processor of cut fruits and vegetables took environmental samples for Listeria monocytogenes after cleaning and disinfection. Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) guidance states the importance of taking samples from food contact surfaces during production.”
Author: Joe Whitworth
Source: Food Safety News
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