The Food and Municipal Authority of Saudi Arabia have introduced new tougher fines in the food industry to improve food hygiene and food safety. A fine of up to 5,000 SAR (Rs. 3.75 Lac) now applies to smoking within restaurants as the government continues to ensure clean and safe eating environments.
The new regulations are aimed at the employees as well as at the companies. Any food preparer who ignores face masks or leaves hair uncovered can receive a fine of 1,000 SAR (Rs. 75,000), and delivery personnel who wear unofficial uniforms are fined 500 SAR (Rs. 37,543).
Any restaurant that deceives the customer by saying that frozen juices are fresh will face a fine of 1,000 SAR and any employee who is caught touching his face, nose or spit on food preparation area will face a fine of up to 2,000 SAR (Rs. 1.50 Lac).
Read more: Saudi Arabia Simplifies Visa Process for Pakistani Citizens
According to the ministry, these regulations are included in the larger efforts to safeguard the health of the populace, to ensure transparency throughout the food supply chain and to enhance consumer confidence. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very keen to ensure that food outlets abide by them so that they do not face fines that may cost a lot and retain their brand credibility.
Saudi Arabia still carries out these sanctions to make sure that restaurants comply with international hygiene and safety regulations so that customers feel more secure, and the food industry can prosper.
