KUWAIT CITY, July 16: In a significant inspection campaign aimed at protecting public health, the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition has closed 17 restaurants and establishments in Mubarakiya Market. These closures were prompted by the sale of meat and materials unfit for human consumption, which posed serious health risks. The authority issued 60 violations against these establishments, and their owners have been referred to legal authorities.

Muhammad Al-Kandari, head of the Mubarakiya Center, stated that the closures were due to multiple violations, including operating without proper licenses, selling spoiled meat, and using chemical bags for meat storage. Additionally, there were significant hygiene issues, including the presence of cockroaches and harmful insects, and workers handling food without the necessary health certificates.

Inspectors found workers with visible wounds and ulcers, lacking health reports or certificates to handle food safely. Other workers failed to maintain personal hygiene, further exacerbating health risks. The establishments also failed to meet general cleanliness standards, prompting immediate legal action and referrals to relevant authorities.

Al-Kandari emphasized the necessity of holding accountable those who compromise consumer safety, urging the public to report any food safety concerns via the hotline 1897770. He assured that inspectors would take prompt legal measures against violators.

The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition issued decisions to close 17 food establishments, including restaurants, food stores, and meat shops, for committing various violations. These included trading and selling materials unfit for human consumption, operating without an official license, and selling spoiled meat based on visual inspection, in accordance with Executive Regulation 20 of 2017.

The closure procedures were based on directives from Dr. Reem Al-Fulaij, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and Director General of the Authority, to hold accountable anyone who tampers with food supplies and harms consumers. Violations involving the sale of unfit food items are irreconcilable, while other violations may be settled with fines paid within 60 days.

In cases where establishments were closed for non-compliance with hygiene requirements, the owners will not be granted a permanent reopening until the violations are rectified. Inspectors will reinspect the facilities to ensure compliance before granting a permanent reopening.

Al-Kandari stressed the importance of consumers in maintaining food safety standards. He encouraged citizens and residents to ensure the safety of meat and food products by checking their natural properties, color, and smell. Consumers are urged to report any food safety or public health complaints to the hotline 1897770, prompting immediate legal action if commercial fraud or unfit food items are discovered.