In a former pharmacy

Another illegal butcher’s shop busted in Vienna

(Bild: APA/GRUPPE SOFORTMASSNAHMEN)

Officials have once again succeeded in uncovering an illegal meat business in Vienna. According to the City of Vienna's Emergency Measures Group, around 200 kilograms of meat were seized in the premises of a former pharmacy in Ottakring. 

Together with the Public Employment Service Austria (AMS), the Immediate Action Group found massive hygiene deficiencies in the business and the accompanying van. The company also did not have a corresponding operating license.

Health risks
Food control bodies from the market authority took samples of the meat, which were examined by AGES for health risks. The businesses that were supplied with the meat must also undergo an inspection. The meat found will be destroyed.

The health of consumers has top priority. Anyone who endangers people's health with illegal butchers will be held accountable sooner or later.

Leiter der Gruppe Sofortmaßnahmen, Walter Hillerer

In addition, one of the employees present was registered with the social security system but was also receiving benefits from the AMS. Officially, he was on sick leave. Walter Hillerer, Head of the Emergency Measures Group, emphasized: "The health of consumers has top priority. Anyone who endangers people's health with illegal butchers will be held accountable sooner or later. We will continue to take rigorous action against illegal businesses."

Illegal meat plant uncovered in January
It was only in January that an illegal meat plant was uncovered in Vienna-Favoriten. Kebab meat was being produced in a former carpenter's workshop and several hundred kilograms were confiscated.