SM conducts 12,000 food facility inspections in Q1

Sharjah24: Sharjah City Municipality reported conducting 12,256 inspection visits to food establishments in the first quarter of this year. These inspections were aimed at ensuring compliance with health standards and regulations, thereby enhancing the emirate's public health system. As part of these routine and surprise visits, the municipality shut down two food warehouses for failing to meet approved health and safety requirements.

The municipality reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and healthy food for consumers and stated that necessary administrative and legal actions were taken against the violators. The closures were a result of inspections carried out by the Food Control Section.

Violations Prompt Closure

Jamal Jumaa Al Mazmi, Director of the Health Control and Safety Department at Sharjah City Municipality, confirmed that inspection teams successfully identified two warehouses and the food products within them during their field campaigns, preventing these items from reaching the market. The confiscated items included food products that are prohibited for use or distribution in the emirate, as well as those that did not meet health specifications and standards. The municipality promptly seized and destroyed the non-compliant products in accordance with standard procedures and ordered the closure of both warehouses.

Al Mazmi stated that inspections of these establishments are carried out according to clear standards that encompass all aspects, including food preparation, processing, and storage methods, as well as workers' compliance with hygiene practices and possession of professional health cards. He added that employees receive training through the Sharjah Food Safety Program. The standards also include requirements concerning the cleanliness of the facility, equipment, and tools, as well as maintenance and other operational needs.

Khalifa Bouganem Al Suweidi, Director of the Inspection and Control Department, stated that the municipality's inspection teams work as an integrated team to monitor negative behaviors that compromise the public appearance or negatively impact individual and community health. He emphasized that the teams work together to implement necessary measures in the event of any violations. He highlighted that the inspection teams are distinguished by their accuracy, keen observation abilities, and exceptional efficiency in their tasks.