In a decisive enforcement action, Dutch authorities have temporarily closed a supermarket in Paramaribo for persistent violations of food safety regulations. The Economic Control Service (ECD), operating under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation (EZOTI), executed the closure on December 8, 2025, following the discovery of unlabeled chicken parts during a routine inspection.
The enforcement action comes after the retailer had previously received formal warnings for identical violations. Despite these warnings, inspectors found the business continued to offer products without proper labeling, potentially exposing consumers to health risks and denying them essential product information.
Government officials emphasized that food retailers bear full responsibility for compliance with consumer protection and food safety legislation. The ministry’s statement highlighted the mandatory nature of cooperation with inspection agencies and reiterated that businesses must proactively adhere to regulatory requirements to avoid sanctions.
Authorities also encouraged citizens to report suspected violations, including price gouging or smuggling activities, through official channels. The ECD reaffirmed that maintaining food safety standards and protecting consumers remain top priorities within their ongoing supervisory mission.
This case demonstrates the Netherlands’ strengthened approach to regulatory enforcement in the retail food sector, particularly regarding labeling requirements that enable consumers to make informed choices about their purchases.