RICA warns public against freshly slaughtered chicken



Health

23, Mar-2026     Administrator


Rwanda’s Inspection, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA) has warned the public against consuming freshly slaughtered chicken, saying it may not meet required safety standards.


Dr. Gaspard Simbarikure, a RICA official responsible for hygiene, quality inspection and quarantine of animal products, said the common practice of slaughtering chickens on demand for immediate consumption should be discouraged.

“People are used to having chickens slaughtered in front of them, but this needs to change,” he said.

Simbarikure said meat should be kept under regulated cold storage for at least 24 hours after slaughter to ensure safety and quality.

He urged consumers to confirm that meat has been inspected by a certified veterinarian and to request proof of inspection before purchase.

Benitha Niyogisubizo, a meat inspector at a slaughterhouse in Burera District, said meat processed at approved facilities undergoes proper hygiene and quality checks before being supplied to the market. She encouraged households and businesses to use authorized slaughterhouses.

Demand for chicken is rising in Rwanda as consumers seek more affordable alternatives to beef.


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