Inspectors of Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) charged cases against three violations and issued 23 warnings in various food establishments, besides destroying 11 kg of unsafe food products.

The action was taken during a special Ramadan campaign for food safety, targeting around 355 food establishments, including 13 bakeries, 22 confectionaries, 153 food outlets, 102 store houses and 64 vehicles transporting foods.

Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa, Director of Communication and Community Service at ADFCA, said the campaign was meant to check the quality of food being sold in the holy month and the preparedness of food outlets for the heavy footfall and resultant demand in Ramadan. "The campaign also included catering units that serve food at Ramadan tents. During the campaign, we not only took action against malpractices, but also gave guidance and advice on best and safe practices," he added.

Al Reyaysa said the violations detected pertained to food labels, especially after repackaging, storage, unlicensed food transportation and the sale of expired foods.

Al Reyaysa said ADFCA's surveillance on the markets and border crossings would continue intensely through the holy month. "Given the heavy demand during Ramadan, some tend to ignore essential safety practices. Surprise inspections and frequent visits by our inspectors will ensure that there are no violations. We call upon the public to cooperate with us fully and inform us on any food safety violations immediately.  We have a dedicated toll free number (800555) for receiving such information and complaints from the public," he pointed out.