Food outlets face stiffer penalties for violations

Food outlets face stiffer penalties for violations

QatarNews
By QatarNews

Tougher penalties have been introduced in Qatar for food outlets that violate the monitoring law.

Erring outlets now straight away face closure for up to 60 days.

Earlier, outlets were closed initially for one month, and the closure was extended to two months and then three months if the violation was repeated.

The Emir yesterday issued a law amending some provisions on monitoring of food for human consumption.

The new law gives authorities the right to close an outlet violating the law for “not more than 60 days.”

According to the amendment, the Qatar Authority for Standards and Specifications at the Ministry of Environment has also been given the power to decide on closure of erring outlets.

Earlier, this power was limited to departments at the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning and the Supreme Council of Health.

The person responsible for the violation will bear the expenses involved in the closure.

A sticker will be placed at the outlet saying that it (or the specific area of the outlet) has been closed for violating the food monitoring law, and the decision will be published on the website of the department that has taken the decision.

The affected person has the right to lodge a complaint against the decision with the Minister of Municipality and Urban Planning, Minister of Health or the Minister of Environment (depending on which department has taken the decision) within 10 days of the date of closure.

The minister may respond to this complaint in 10 days.

If there is no response during this period, it will mean the plea has been rejected and the decision is final.

Government employees will be assigned to conduct inspections at eateries and other food outlets.

They will have judicial powers and be authorised to inspect and confirm violations of the law. (Source: The Peninsula)

By jayere• 3 Mar 2014 14:02
jayere

tell us what restaurant that was

By Vinclassic• 28 Feb 2014 00:23
Vinclassic

This is indeed a good step. I'm sure this will serve as a warning to them all. Still I would love to know the procedure for reporting such cases. I'm tired of getting "I'm sorry" from managers and supervisors of eateries over their silly mistakes.

By kabreprasad• 26 Feb 2014 08:54
kabreprasad

for proof i just have the snap of the same...and will post back if i receive any feedback...

By pirate lover• 25 Feb 2014 21:21
pirate lover

@Prasad : hope u hav kept some proof with u,,,,plz post it here as well once u get the feedback from the rest. :)

By kabreprasad• 25 Feb 2014 21:02
kabreprasad

Sorry, i ordered a veg sandwich which is almost similar to burger and i checked with the resto operation manager he agreed its there mistake...said sorry and offered me a new one which offcourse i wont take...

It was a proper wood and not the stick which usually the burger has...

The operational manager said he will reply to me within 4 days...i dont know what ezplaination he would give...but incase if he didnt reply to my complain then whom shall i say these...any contacts?

By mohdata• 25 Feb 2014 13:12
mohdata

kabreprasad: are you sure you weren't chewing through the single wooden stick that is stuck in the burger to hold it together?

By kabreprasad• 25 Feb 2014 12:44
kabreprasad

yesterday I found multiple wooden sticks inside a veg burger in the well-known restaurant in Doha. Need to know if such things happens to whom shall we contact.

By avikrajeev• 25 Feb 2014 10:58
avikrajeev

Good, This is a healthy step.

By pirate lover• 25 Feb 2014 09:50
pirate lover

A very gud initiative by the Govt......but whom & where to report if we find any discrepancy in eatable stuff ???

By Humbles• 25 Feb 2014 09:33
Humbles

That is a healthy step.

By mohdata• 25 Feb 2014 09:16
mohdata

while most places in the Gulf do self monitor their standards and street food here is pretty safe, there are a few that cut corners and I humbly opine that this decision is just return for those that think its ok to risk their customers' well-being..

Log in or register to post comments

More from Qatar Living

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Qatar’s top beaches for water sports thrills

Let's dive into the best beaches in Qatar, where you can have a blast with water activities, sports and all around fun times.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part Two

This guide brings you the top apps that will simplify the use of government services in Qatar.
Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

Most Useful Apps In Qatar - Part One

this guide presents the top must-have Qatar-based apps to help you navigate, dine, explore, access government services, and more in the country.
Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Winter is coming – Qatar’s seasonal adventures await!

Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

7 Days of Fun: One-Week Activity Plan for Kids

Stuck with a week-long holiday and bored kids? We've got a one week activity plan for fun, learning, and lasting memories.
Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Wallet-friendly Mango Sticky Rice restaurants that are delightful on a budget

Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in  high-end elegance

Places to enjoy Mango Sticky Rice in high-end elegance

Delve into a world of culinary luxury as we explore the upmarket hotels and fine dining restaurants serving exquisite Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Where to celebrate World Vegan Day in Qatar

Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.