Watermelon controversy: Producers denounce 'intox' on Facebook

Producers in Tunisia's Sidi Bouzid region have moved to reassure consumers following the spread of alarming posts on social media, particularly Facebook, warning against eating watermelons. Ali Brahmi, president of the Regional Union of Agriculture in Sidi Bouzid, stated that the region is a major watermelon-producing area and that all agricultural practices strictly follow regulated standards.

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The region constitutes one of the main watermelon production basins in Tunisia, while emphasizing that all agricultural practices respect framed standards.

Brahmi clarified that while watermelons, like other crops, may undergo treatments with phytosanitary products, these are applied within a strict scientific framework and under technical supervision, not in an arbitrary manner. He explained to Diwan FM that watermelon production is regularly monitored by specialized agricultural engineers who oversee all stages to ensure the product's quality and safety for consumption.

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Agricultural crops, including watermelon, may resort to phytosanitary products and treatments, but only within a strict scientific framework and under technical control, and not in an anarchic manner.

The union president expressed regret over the impact of the social media posts, which he believes have fostered unjustified anxiety and eroded trust in local produce. Brahmi reiterated that all agricultural products are subject to rigorous control and monitoring mechanisms implemented by specialists to safeguard consumer health and ensure food security. The union aims to counter misinformation and restore confidence in the region's agricultural output.

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The publications circulating on social networks have contributed to creating a climate of unjustified concern and fueling mistrust towards local agricultural products.