Abu Dhabi inspectors issued nearly 1,000 fines for food safety breaches last year

The Agriculture and Food Safety Authority made more than 150,000 visits to traders in 2020

The Agriculture and Food Safety Authority carried more than 150,000 inspections across food outlets in Abu Dhabi last year. Courtesy: Agriculture and Food Safety Authority

Food safety inspectors in Abu Dhabi handed out nearly 1,000 fines to eateries for failing to meet quality standards last year.

The Agriculture and Food Safety Authority conducted more than 150,000 visits to businesses across the emirate in an effort to protect the public.

Officials assessed whether staff were adhering to hygiene and Covid-19 measures, such as wearing face masks and regularly washing their hands.

“The goal is to tighten control over all food entities and to ensure they are abiding by the law,” the authority said.

Inspectors examined food storage compartments closely and made sure that the windows and doors were properly shut to avoid any possible contamination.

They also checked the cleanliness of preparation and display areas.

Out of the 967 fines, 641 were issued in Abu Dhabi city, 213 fines were in Al Ain, and 37 in Al Dhafra.