By Chang-yong Lee

Health Korea News

SEOUL, South Korea, July 15, 2026 — The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in South Korea announced on July 15 that it has identified 51 establishments violating food safety regulations following a nationwide inspection of summer health food providers.

Inspection Overview

From June 15 to June 26, the MFDS, in collaboration with local governments, conducted inspections on 2,886 establishments handling popular summer health foods such as goat meat and Samgyetang. The initiative was aimed at strengthening hygiene and safety standards during the peak consumption season.

Among the 2,886 inspected sites, 51 establishments were found to be in violation of the Livestock Products Sanitary Control Act and the Food Sanitation Act, accounting for approximately 1.8% of the total.

Inspection Overview

From June 15 to June 26, the MFDS, in collaboration with local governments, conducted inspections on 2,886 establishments handling popular summer health foods such as goat meat and Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup). The initiative was aimed at strengthening hygiene and safety standards during the peak consumption season.

Among the 2,886 inspected sites, 51 establishments were found to be in violation of the Livestock Products Sanitary Control Act and the Food Sanitation Act, accounting for approximately 1.8% of the total.

Key Findings

Livestock Sector: Out of 889 inspections, 15 establishments were cited for violations including failure to comply with operational standards, neglecting mandatory health checkups for employees, and violations of preservation and distribution standards.

Food Sector: Out of 1,997 inspections, 36 establishments were cited. Common violations included failure to meet hygiene handling standards, neglecting health checkups, and non-compliance with facility standards.

The MFDS also conducted laboratory testing on 410 products, including goat meat, chicken, and duck. One 'meat extract product' was found to have excessive bacterial counts and has been ordered for immediate recall and disposal.

Online Advertisement Crackdown

The ministry also scrutinized 400 online advertisements for goat meat products that claimed health benefits such as 'diabetes prevention' or 'fatigue recovery.' A total of 44 advertisements (11%) were identified as false or exaggerated. The MFDS has requested the Korea Communications Standards Commission to block access to these illegal online posts.

The authorities stated they will conduct follow-up inspections within six months for the penalized establishments to ensure compliance.