Georgia’s National Food Agency has uncovered significant violations in the country’s meat industry, including the discovery of an illegal slaughterhouse and unsafe meat products in regions such as Shida Kartli, Kvemo Kartli, and Imereti. These findings are part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and public health.
In the first eight months of 2025, the National Food Agency conducted over 5,100 inspections across various food establishments, including slaughterhouses, retail outlets, and processing facilities. During these inspections, 449 violations were identified, resulting in corrective measures and sanctions against non-compliant businesses.
One notable case involved frozen kebab products produced by New Gemo 2019 LLC, located in Gori. The product, dated August 25, 2025, with an expiration date of October 25, 2025, was found to be non-compliant with safety standards. The National Food Agency ordered the immediate withdrawal of this product from the market, and the company complied.
In the first eight months of 2025, the National Food Agency conducted over 5,100 inspections. During these inspections, 449 violations were identified
Further inspections revealed an illegal slaughterhouse operating in Samtredia, where cattle were slaughtered without proper veterinary oversight. Additionally, a meat outlet in Talaveri village, Bolnisi Municipality, was found to be selling meat from cattle slaughtered without the required health markings. Both establishments faced legal action to address these serious violations.
These efforts are part of a broader national campaign to strengthen food safety and protect consumers. The National Food Agency continues to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture to improve regulatory oversight and ensure compliance with international standards.
Background: Georgia’s Meat Industry in 2025
Georgia’s meat sector remains a critical component of its agricultural economy, with cattle, sheep, and poultry farming playing major roles. The majority of meat production is supplied by small- and medium-sized farms located in regions such as Kvemo Kartli, Shida Kartli, and Kakheti. Despite the sector’s economic significance, challenges like insufficient infrastructure, limited veterinary controls, and informal slaughtering practices continue to affect food safety and market transparency.
In recent years, the Georgian government, supported by partners including the European Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), has focused on modernizing the meat industry. These reforms aim to upgrade slaughterhouse facilities, improve veterinary services, and align food safety practices with EU standards, thus enabling growth in both domestic consumption and exports.
According to the National Statistics Office of Georgia (GeoStat), meat production and consumption have steadily increased, reflecting growing demand for high-quality, traceable products. However, illegal slaughtering and unregulated meat sales persist as serious concerns, threatening consumer confidence and public health.
The EU-Georgia Association Agreement has been instrumental in driving improvements in sanitary and phytosanitary measures, fostering closer alignment with EU regulations. This provides a framework for Georgia to enhance its food safety system and open new export opportunities.
Looking ahead, experts emphasize that continued investment in infrastructure, veterinary oversight, and public awareness is essential to secure a safe and sustainable meat industry in Georgia.
By Mariam Razmadze
