FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti 
Albania faces the most difficult chapter of integration; agro-industry must pass the test of European standards, from processing water to whey separation; whoever does not modernize, is left out of the market...
Albania is in one of the most difficult phases of the European integration process, that of fulfilling the criteria for the chapter on agriculture, livestock and agro-industry, one of the most complicated and costly in the entire membership package.
After years of uncontrolled production, where chemicals, adulteration, and food industry improvisations have been tolerated, the era of fraud with "organic" labels and products sprayed with pesticides is now coming to an end.
The EU will require a complete European standard, starting from the ground and ending on the market shelf.
"Magnifying glass" control over every food product
In the first phase of the approximation, each food product will undergo detailed analysis of its origin, production method and chemical composition. The use of undeclared insecticides, pesticides and chemicals will lead to severe legal penalties and factory closures.
Product traceability, which will be the main control criterion, requires that each farm, dairy or factory has a documented system for the source of raw materials, processing dates and distribution channel.
Agro-processing, the most fragile sector
Albanian agro-industry, consisting mainly of factories and small family dairies, is expected to face the biggest challenge. Production conditions, hygiene and sanitation, ventilation, processing water and storage methods will be under the scrutiny of European inspectors.
For the first time, it will be required that the water used in processing passes through an osmosis system and ultraviolet devices, to avoid any microbiological contamination.
Dairy and meat products factories will have to have separation systems for white, black and whey waters, with functional treatment plants before discharge.
Production in family environments is prohibited
One of the most drastic changes expected to be implemented is the ban on the processing of food products in family environments, without technical and hygienic conditions.
Production in homes, garages or in mixed residential and production buildings will be considered a risk to public health.
Processing areas must be physically separated from storage areas, with minimum height, natural lighting and air circulation according to EU standards.
New standards require investments, not just rules
Sector experts warn that, in addition to laws, Albania needs a major investment program in food processing technology.
Without modern lines, analytical laboratories, and financial support, most Albanian farms and dairies risk closing.
At this stage, the EU seeks concrete results, not political promises:
"No product will be allowed on the European market without full standards. Albania must move from artisanal production to safe industrial production," the European Commission report states.
A new reality for Albanian agriculture
In recent decades, Albanian agriculture and livestock have relied more on improvisation than on standards. But now, the phase of European inspections will be a real test to see if the country is ready for the common market.
There will be no more excuses or “turning a blind eye”. Every producer will have to choose: either modernize, or exit the market./ Pamphlet
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