Surge In Food Poisoning Cases: 5 Kuwaiti Eateries Shut Down By Authorities

Health Authorities Act Swiftly to Address Food Safety Violations

Recent reports from health authorities indicate a troubling increase in food poisoning complaints across Kuwait. The Ministry of Health’s Preventive Health Department, along with the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN), has identified and acted upon food safety violations at five local food establishments.

Key Actions Taken

Closure of Establishments: The affected eateries were shut down pending the results of food and water safety tests. These closures are part of a broader initiative to address and mitigate health risks associated with food poisoning.

Inspection and Testing: Food inspection teams from PAFN and the Preventive Health Department conducted immediate raids on the establishments. They collected samples for rigorous testing to ensure food safety. The eateries will remain closed until test results are confirmed.

Complaint Handling: Complaints reported via Hotline No. 1807770, the PAFN website, or directly to the Preventive Health Department trigger an inspection. Authorities inspect the facility’s compliance with Ministerial Resolutions No. 20/2017 and 25/2017 concerning food control regulations.

Legal and Penalty Procedures

Violations and Penalties: Facilities found violating food safety standards, such as the presence of insects or distribution of unsafe food, face closure and legal actions. Penalties can range from KD 500 to KD 50,000, with further legal proceedings involving the Public Prosecution.

Reopening Conditions: Once violations are addressed and food safety is assured, establishments may request temporary administrative reopening. Subsequent inspections ensure continued compliance with health standards.

Continued Monitoring

The Ministry of Health’s laboratories expedite the testing of collected samples, labeled ‘Urgent’ to speed up results. Facilities that test positive for contamination will remain closed and marked with a red sticker bearing the authority’s seal.

By Marwa Al-Bahrawi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff