In a statement, the Food and Economic Security Authority (ASAE) also informs that 13 administrative offence proceedings have been initiated, mainly related to "serious deficiencies in hygiene and safety conditions," which put consumers at risk, and four food and beverage establishments have been suspended for "lack of minimum operating conditions."

The ASAE has been carrying out inspection, surveillance, and monitoring activities in municipalities affected by the bad weather and has identified "significant food losses resulting from the breakdown of the cold chain in several municipalities."

ASAE has been in the most affected regions since 30 January, having carried out 630 actions to advise and inspect economic operators, as well as to prevent the emergence of more serious problems resulting from the lack of energy and water.

According to the statement, the authority will continue to monitor the regions affected by the bad weather, "maintaining the commitment to transparency and promoting healthy and fair competition among economic operators, while ensuring food safety and public health for consumers."

ASAE has provided technical support to the affected areas, ensuring the presence of an inspector at the "Rebuild Leiria" Office, in the municipality of Leiria, to provide technical support, guidance and clarifications to economic operators.