One in ten food transport vehicles in Dubai fail hygiene test

More than 10 per cent of vehicles used to transport food failed a hygiene test by inspectors in Dubai.

The municipality said 145 of the 1,230 vehicles checked in a round of inspections did not pass, leading to fines and the impounding of trucks and lorries.

It said the vast majority complied and ensured the safe transport of dry, chilled and frozen food items.

The Food Inspection Section at the municipality's, in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Police, carried out inspections at the Warsan Vegetable and Fruits Market.

The market is considered the main source of food transport for establishments and consumers.

Sultan Ali Al Tahir, head of the food inspection section, said standards have improved on last year.

"The commitment rate in the campaign last year was about 80 per cent, which increased this year to 90 per cent. It is a positive indicator of the increased commitment of food establishments on the safe transport regulations and adopting a food safety culture," he said.

Mr Al Tahir said spot checks would be carried out throughout the year until 100 per cent of vehicles are proved to be clean.

He urged the public to report any vehicle or company that appeared to be dirty or lack good standards by calling the municipality call centre number 800900, which operates around the clock.

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