In recent days, social media users have been actively discussing alarming reports claiming that dishes made from dog meat were allegedly sold in Kazakhstan’s Akmola region. According to viral posts, representatives of the veterinary service were «involved,» and a specific company engaged in capturing stray dogs was named. Some publications even claimed that «dog meat was used in 18 cafés,» with the total volume reaching «hundreds of kilograms» and profits «in the billions of tenge.»
The internet quickly exploded with reactions — many users said they were now afraid to buy shawarma and other meat-based dishes.
However, the regional Veterinary Department denied these claims. Officials stated that the information circulating online does not correspond to reality.
According to the department, a similar case was indeed investigated back in 2022 in the Shortandy district, when an employee of a private dog-catching company temporarily worked there for about a month. After an official inspection, no evidence of dog meat being sold or used in food production was found.
«As of today, all meat products sold within the region undergo mandatory veterinary and sanitary control. Each batch is accompanied by the necessary certification. No cases of selling or using dog meat have been recorded,» — the department’s response said.
At the same time, experts admit there is indeed a shortage of beef on the market. Over the past few months, prices have increased by around 1,000 tenge per kilogram. Sellers attribute this to high demand and reduced supply. Specialists believe this situation could have fueled the spread of such rumors.
Meanwhile, some residents of the region admit they are now wary of street food — from shawarma to kebabs.
