The province of Salta was shaken by a case that sparked consternation and concern in the community. A butcher shop located in the Ceferino neighborhood was raided by the Justice following a customer’s complaint that she claimed to have found cat meat in a blood sausage purchased at the store.
According to her version, two veterinarians confirmed that it was remains of a feline, which prompted the immediate intervention of the Feria Penal Prosecutor’s Office 5.
The Charge
The owner of the establishment, a 52-year-old woman, was charged with the alleged crime of supplying, distributing, and storing food substances dangerous to health, under article 201 of the Penal Code.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office emphasized that the measure seeks to protect public health and prevent risks to consumers.
The Judicial Operation
Prosecutor Federico Jovanovics requested a search and seizure warrant from the Guarantees Court, executed on January 9. During the procedure, personnel from the Salta Municipality’s Bromatology confirmed the existence of sausages and meat cuts in inadequate preservation conditions, without refrigeration and of dubious origin.
Among the seized products are:
- Pork cheese
- Sausage
- Butifarra-type sausage
- Blood sausage
Three samples of each were taken to be subjected to bromatological analysis, in compliance with Ordinance No. 15292 and Law No. 18284 of the Argentine Food Code.
Detected Infractions
The operation resulted in an infraction report for multiple violations:
- Absence of commercial authorization.
- Lack of food handling permit.
- Non-compliance with articles 21 and 28 of Law No. 18284.
- Products without adequate refrigeration.
- Poor hygiene conditions.
The accused also lacked the food handling license, which worsened the situation with the authorities.
Institutional Coordination
The procedure was coordinated between the Prosecutor’s Office, the Municipality of Salta, and representatives of the provincial Government, given the seriousness of the case and the possible health consequences for the neighbors.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office highlighted that the raid aimed to ensure food safety and prevent health risks.
Social Repercussions
The incident generated alarm in the community, which reacted with concern at the possibility that contaminated or adulterated products had been marketed in the neighborhood.
The immediate intervention of the authorities sought to convey reassurance and ensure that the seized food does not re-enter the market.
Next Steps
The case remains under investigation. The accused faces charges for violating article 201 of the Penal Code, which penalizes the production and marketing of food products dangerous to health. The result of the bromatological analyses will be key to determining criminal responsibility and the judicial measures to be taken going forward.
The raid on the butcher shop in Salta highlights the importance of food safety and the role of institutions in protecting public health. Beyond the seriousness of the complaint, the case reflects the need for strict controls and greater awareness of the conditions of food production and sale.
