Abu Dhabi orders closure of supermarket

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority has issued an administrative closure order against the ‘Save Way’ Supermarket in Al Khalidiyah (West 6) area of Abu Dhabi.

Data released by ADAFSA revealed that closure orders were also issued against four restaurants and a food establishment in 2024 for violating Law No. (2) of 2008 on food in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and its related regulations, as well as for posing a risk to public health.

The authority attributed the administrative closure decisions to the establishments’ failure to comply with food safety requirements, repeated high-risk violations affecting food safety, and the negligence of restaurant and establishment officials in taking effective corrective measures.

ADAFSA emphasised that the closure orders remain in effect as long as violations persist. However, operations may resume once corrective actions are taken and all necessary requirements for business operations are met.

According to ADAFSA, the closures were due to several violations, including failure to maintain cleanliness of equipment (such as refrigerators), non-compliance with food handler training certification requirements, displaying ready-to-serve food at inappropriate temperatures, failure to clean floors, shelves, and food-contact surfaces, and neglecting to wear protective clothing (such as hairnets and gloves) in food preparation areas.

Additional reasons for closure included poor hygiene in food handling and storage areas, lack of maintenance and cleanliness of equipment and refrigeration units in preparation zones, unclean ceilings and floors in food preparation areas, pest infestations, and improper storage of cooked and ready-to-serve food, leaving it exposed to contamination risks. Such violations compromise food safety and endanger consumer health.

ADAFSA urged the public to report any observed violations in food establishments or concerns about food quality by calling the Abu Dhabi Government’s toll-free number 800555. This allows ADAFSA inspectors to take necessary actions to ensure safe and wholesome food for all members of the Abu Dhabi community.