Food Safety: Health Inspectorate Strengthens Controls Ahead of Festivities

As the year-end celebrations approach, the health inspectorate is ramping up its control operations across the island to ensure public food safety. Teams will be particularly active in markets, crowded areas, and bustling streets frequented by street vendors, where foot traffic significantly increases during this time.

From January to October, 60 fines were issued for violations of the Food Act. These primarily concern the sale of unfit food, the presence of foreign bodies in food products, or items showing signs of contamination that could lead to food poisoning. During the same period, eight prohibition orders and 465 improvement notices were also issued.

The health inspectorate warns that no violations will be tolerated. Vendors operating without a license or failing to meet hygiene standards will be immediately fined. Depending on the severity of the infractions observed, inspectors may issue warnings, impose bans, or initiate emergency closures.

The goal is clear: to protect consumers and mitigate health risks during this period of increased food demand. Authorities are also urging the public to exercise caution.