The government launched a nationwide inspection of food safety standards in restaurants, cafés, and marketplaces on Monday as part of preparations for the upcoming Holy month of Ramadan.
The initiative is being carried out jointly by the Ministry of Health, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), and the Health Protection Agency (HPA). Inspections will take place across the country from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, focusing on ensuring compliance with the health and safety regulations outlined in the Food Safety Act.
According to the Ministry, the inspections will assess whether food items sold in shops and markets meet the required standards. Officials will check for pest control measures, storage conditions, and adherence to temperature requirements specified on food labels. Additionally, expiry dates, food packaging, and labelling will be closely examined to prevent the sale of expired or improperly stored goods.
The Food Safety Act, which was ratified by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in August last year, seeks to enhance food quality and security in the Maldives. The law grants MFDA the authority to oversee food preparation sites and those responsible for handling food, including individuals producing and selling food from their homes.
As part of the broader regulatory framework, the Ministry of Health has announced plans to introduce licences for households engaged in selling food items. Foreign workers in cafés and hotels will also be registered, with dedicated awareness programmes to educate them on hygiene and cleanliness standards.
