In this undated file photo, rotten chicken seized by Commerce and Industry Ministry inspectors at a Najran market. (SPA)

Jeddah Islamic Port officials have found 30 containers loaded with rotting chicken at pier 51.

The imported chicken has caused a predicament for officials because there are lengthy procedures involved in destroying the shipment. Meanwhile the foul smell is permeating the air at the port.

A source at the Saudi Food and Drug Authority said the containers were refrigerated but the electricity cut out causing the chicken to rot. A specialized committee is following up on the issue to destroy the shipment within the coming two days, the source said.

Security authorities at the port have launched an investigation into why the electricity was cut from the containers.

Port Director Captain Saher Tahlawi said the agent or owner of the shipment would be responsible for destroying the contents. The port administration was not authorized to open the containers and dispense with it unless the agent and security bodies of the port are present.

Head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s food and beverage dealers committee, Naif Al-Abdali, said the committee would discuss the problem during its meeting and submit a report to the authorities.

 
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