Ramadan tents in hotels inspected in Capital

Abu Dhabi - The Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) has inspected Ramadan tents as part of its inspection programme aimed specifically at food facilities operating during the holy month.
A total of 83 Ramadan tents and promotional kiosks, which are temporarily operating inside hotels in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, were inspected by ADFCA teams. Inspectors served 15 warnings and five notices to food facilities that were found to have violated health and safety standards.
Food handling, suitability of equipment used, preparation, cooking and food display were among the key concerns that inspectors focused on.
Thamer Al Qasemi, Communication and Community Services acting Director for ADFCA, told Khaleej Times that inspections at tents during Ramadan are significant due to overcrowding. "We target well-known outlets of Ramadan markets and tents as they (are frequented) ... by residents and visitors," he said.
Warnings were served for preparation of food outside the kitchen, insufficient cleanliness, not exhibiting temporary activity permits and not showing the expiry dates on food products.
Maintaining correct temperature levels for food and equipment were also issues that investigators carefully looked at during their visits.
Al Qasemi pointed out that the ADFCA will continue to focus on food outlets and tents during the fasting season. "Our observations demand that we pay greater attention to these establishments more often ... Our continuous investigations will help avoid wrong practices by food handlers, especially during the busy season."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com