DOA told to destroy pallet of eggs from Samoa

sunshine-eggs

The pallet of eggs that was imported by the Department of Agriculture (DOA) on last week’s sailing of the Lady Samoa has apparently caught the attention of the US Department of Agriculture.

It’s understood that the USDA has issued an order for the eggs to be destroyed, after receiving a report from the US certified veterinarian about the condition of the eggs.

Up to now, Director of Agriculture, Solia Mutini, who is off-island, hasn’t responded to our questions regarding the pallet of eggs.

We can report that the eggs are Sunshine Farm Eggs produced by Frankie Company Ltd. in Samoa. The sell by date is Feb 18, 2023.

Meanwhile, the House Agriculture Committee Chairman, Rep. Ape Mike Asifoa is calling a hearing next Wednesday concerning the importation of products from Samoa. And he’s asking for a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was signed at the Atoa Samoa meeting last year.

The importation of meat products from Samoa into American Samoa was one of the topics discussed, at the Apia leg of the meeting.

Since the Apia meeting, individuals have been able to bring meat products like sausages, salt beef and pork from Samoa; however, there’s been no announcement regarding commercial imports.

Acting House Speaker Fetui Fetu said that it was important for the Fono to understand what’s covered in the MOU with Samoa, to make sure that any agreement does not violate regulations of the federal government.