The NATCP is inspecting international restaurants in collaboration with government agencies

The inspections primarily cover catering establishments serving gyros, döner, Asian, Indian, sushi and other international dishes, where compliance with hygiene standards and food safety regulations is of particular importance due to the variety of ingredients and cooking methods used.

During its official inspections, the NATCP pays particular attention to the proper storage and handling of ingredients, the continuous maintenance of the cold chain, the separate handling of raw materials and ready-to-eat dishes, and the compliance of catering establishments with hygiene standards and technical requirements. The inspections also cover compliance with personal hygiene regulations, the correct provision of consumer information on allergens, and the verification of the existence and proper application of the HACCP system and related documentation.

Particular attention will be paid to food safety risks associated with certain international dishes, such as the proper handling and storage of raw meat, fish, pre-prepared ingredients and foods consumed without heat treatment.

These enhanced inspections are also justified by last year’s inspection findings: in 2025, following inspections of 155 Far Eastern catering establishments, regulatory proceedings were initiated in 126 cases, and in 18 cases operations were suspended due to food safety deficiencies. The total amount of fines imposed for these infringements by the food control and food chain supervision authorities exceeded 15 million forints. Last year, staff from the NATCP and government agencies carried out inspections at 350 snack bars and restaurants selling gyros. Proceedings were initiated in 89 cases, with fines totalling 17 million forints.

The NATCP’s aim is not only to support businesses operating in accordance with the law, but also to identify and rectify any shortcomings, and to ensure that consumers can purchase foodstuffs produced under safe conditions, labelled in accordance with regulations and accompanied by the necessary information.