Europol Operation Nets 11,566 Tonnes of Counterfeit, Contaminated Food & Beverages
The Hague, Netherlands – A coordinated international effort led by europol, dubbed OPSON XIV, has seized 11,566 tonnes of illicit and substandard food and 1.4 million liters of fraudulent beverages, authorities announced today. The annual operation, targeting food crime across the globe, resulted in 11 arrests linked to offenses ranging from mislabeled produce to the illegal trade of contaminated seafood and trafficking.
This year’s OPSON XIV highlights the escalating sophistication of food crime networks, which pose a significant threat to public health and economic stability. The operation, involving authorities from 51 countries, uncovered instances of purposeful mislabeling - including 2,000 tonnes of bananas from Madeira falsely sold as originating from the Canary Islands – alongside the seizure of 33 slaughtered animals, 159 sheep and goats, and approximately 200 kilograms of animal intestines. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the impact and to prevent further fraudulent activity.
Beyond mislabeling, the operation exposed a complex network involved in the illegal harvesting and sale of contaminated shellfish, leading to 11 arrests and the confiscation of over 7 tonnes of product destined for multiple European markets. Authorities estimate the operation disrupted a criminal enterprise projected to generate €2.5 million in weekly profits,with associated crimes including environmental damage,money laundering,document forgery,and suspected human trafficking.
Europol continues to support national authorities in dismantling these criminal networks and safeguarding the integrity of the food supply chain. OPSON,now in it’s fourteenth year,remains a crucial initiative in the global fight against food fraud and adulteration.