The slaughter of live chickens directly at sales points constitutes illegal practice and is likened to anarchic slaughter, stated on Thursday, July 30, 2026, by Ibrahim Nefzaoui, president of the National Chamber of Poultry and White Meat Merchants, in an interview with Tunisie Numérique.
According to him, Article 25 of the code of conduct governing the sector formally prohibits this type of practice.
A practice deemed harmful to the sector
Ibrahim Nefzaoui stated that slaughtering poultry at sales points had harmed the sector, despite the strengthened control operations carried out by the National Authority for the Sanitary Safety of Food Products and by the Ministry of Trade.
He however mentioned shortcomings at some other related structures, calling for intensified efforts to put an end to anarchic slaughter.
The official recalled that this phenomenon had been reduced by about 90% in 2009 and 2010, before reappearing after the revolution.
Sanitary risks for consumers
The president of the National Chamber of Poultry and White Meat Merchants also warned consumers about the risks associated with buying live chickens slaughtered on site.
According to him, these operations are not subject to sanitary checks and the poultry sold under these conditions may carry diseases, even when their price seems more favorable.
In contrast, chickens slaughtered in licensed establishments are subject to sanitary monitoring, notably by veterinarians. Their transport and slaughter are also subject to several regulatory requirements.
Chickens bought directly from producers
Regarding the origin of live chickens sold in some shops, Ibrahim Nefzaoui explained that they mainly came from producers or farmers.
Shop owners would travel themselves to purchase these poultry, before marketing them directly without going through an approved slaughterhouse.
A shortage of white meats in some outlets
Ibrahim Nefzaoui did not rule out the existence of a shortage of certain white meats in stores, notably chicken fillet.
He noted that coordination work is currently underway with the various parties involved to control supply and prices.
According to his statements, the price of the chicken fillet does not exceed 19 dinars in markets, while it is around 21 dinars in supermarkets.
Special measures in Greater Tunis
In regions with high consumption, notably Greater Tunis, coordination is underway with the regional directorate of commerce to address the shortage observed and to keep prices at their current levels.
Ibrahim Nefzaoui reminded that the current pricing for chicken will remain in force until August 10, 2026.
A meeting planned for Monday
A meeting between the various sector stakeholders is scheduled for next Monday.
It will be devoted to examining the main problems faced by the poultry and white meat sector, as well as solutions likely to improve supply, market organization, and adherence to sanitary regulations.
