05/09/2024
05/09/2024
KUWAIT CITY, Sep 5: In its ongoing efforts to ensure food security in Kuwait, the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition conducted a comprehensive inspection tour in Hawalli Governorate. This operation led to the closure of four food establishments and the issuance of 21 violations. Additionally, 50 kilograms of chicken and 40 kilograms of meat were destroyed due to contamination and non-compliance.
Adel Awad, the shift officer at the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition Emergency Center in Hawalli, reported that one establishment was found violating regulations by using an unauthorized area and selling adulterated food of unknown origin. The establishment was also infested with rats, insects, and general filth, violating public hygiene standards. Awad emphasized the Authority's commitment to inspecting food facilities and addressing violations, either through financial fines or by closing down non-compliant establishments.
Awad noted that the violations included failure to adhere to public hygiene standards, selling adulterated food, and unauthorized use of space. These infractions led to the closure of the establishments under licensing regulations (Decision 25/2017) and ministerial decisions (Decision 20/2017).
Adel Al-Abbasi, Assistant Food Supervisor at the General Authority for Food and Nutrition, highlighted that some establishments had multiple violations, including unauthorized expansion (20 meters beyond the facility's boundary), poor hygiene conditions, and the sale of food without proper labeling.
Al-Abbasi explained that some violations could be reconciled, while others, particularly those affecting food safety and consumer health, necessitate the destruction of the seized items.
Khaled Al-Qallaf, a Food Inspector at the Authority, added that certain violations led to immediate closure of the facility. Owners wishing to address violations must contact the Authority to rectify issues before reopening.
Bader Al-Saffar, Food Inspector in Hawalli Governorate, detailed that the seized unfit food for consumption included 50 kilograms of chicken and 40 kilograms of meat. He explained that all seized items are destroyed following proper procedures, with detailed reports prepared and the destroyed materials transferred to the municipality based on quantity.