BU DHABI,14th April, 2023 (WAM) — The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has launched an extensive inspection campaign to promote food safety and reduce food waste during Ramadan. The campaign, which began a week prior to the holy month, aimed to verify compliance with food safety regulations, enforce legislation, and promote the health of food establishments and the community. total of 4,491 food establishments were inspected, with 2,531 meeting all the necessary requirements. However, 76 were fined, 1,628 were warned, and 256 were given attention. Additionally, approximately 12,460 establishments in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi have implemented a self-monitoring system. The inspection campaigns aimed to enhance food safety in all establishments involved in the food chain, including supermarkets, restaurants, distribution centres, food stores, catering companies, and markets selling meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Approved procedures were followed to correct any malpractices and ensure access to the highest levels of food safety during Ramadan. To complement the inspection campaign, an awareness campaign was launched to educate the public about the harmful effects of food waste economically and environmentally. The campaign provides guidance on preserving food, encouraging optimal usage, and changing community behaviour towards food. It emphasises the importance of meal planning, determining appropriate quantities of food, safe and correct storage, and handling practices. DAFSA has urged the public to report any violations detected in any food establishment by calling the toll-free number for the Abu Dhabi government, 800555.
Source: Emirates News Agency (WAM)