National gyros inspection: 350 buffet and restaurant inspections, 85 procedures, 25 units closed, 1,300 kilos of food withdrawn from the market

The nationwide investigation was ordered on the basis of previous negative inspection results. Based on inspections carried out by the NATCP and government agencies, 25 catering establishments had to be temporarily suspended from operation due to serious hygiene irregularities. Among other things, these establishments were found to be excessively crowded and had heavily contaminated refrigerators and work surfaces. Consumer information did not comply with regulations in all cases either: 17% of the establishments inspected did not adequately label allergens. A total of 197 items, weighing approximately 1,300 kilograms, were withdrawn from the market due to untraceability, incorrect labelling, and expired shelf life and expiry dates.

24% of employees did not have a valid health certificate, and 15% of the inspected establishments did not ensure the tracing of raw materials and ready-made meals.

The purpose of the nationwide inspection was to protect consumers and reduce food safety risks. Hygiene deficiencies carry serious risks to health, and ingredients that cannot be tracked make it impossible to respond quickly in the event of a food safety problem. Therefore, inspections by the NATCP and government agencies under its professional supervision will continue in the future.