Gross hygiene violations detected at a vegetable processing plant in Kaunas

29 April 2025. The Supervision Department of the State Food and Veterinary Service (SFVT), Kaunas District Supervision Division, carried out an unscheduled inspection at the vegetable processing plant of UAB „Arajus“ in Kaunas. The inspection was initiated following a report of potentially inadequate hygiene conditions – the premises were reported to be dirty, mouldy and smelly.

The inspection revealed a number of serious food safety violations and extremely dilapidated premises. The establishment had no self-monitoring procedures in place and the production areas were extremely untidy and dirty.  The hygiene areas of the staff were neglected, dirty and corroded equipment was found, the premises did not have sufficient lighting, equipment was dirty, and surfaces were not sufficiently disinfected. It was also found that workers were working without valid health checks and that the establishment failed to provide some documentation on product formulas and shelf-life dates.

Taking into account the extent of the infringements and the potential risk to consumers' health, the MoHP decided to suspend the establishment's activities.

The HVO reminds that food business operators must strictly comply with the hygiene requirements, implement a system of self-monitoring and ensure the safety and traceability of their products. The MoHFW will continue to enforce consistent controls to protect consumers and ensure food safety throughout the country.