Illegal food processing facility in Sharjah shutdown

Unlicenced factory produced roasted nuts, coffee and baked goods

Food safety inspectors have shutdown an illegal processing facility in Sharjah, officials have said.

The plant is understood to have produced roasted nuts, coffee and baked goods for a number of well-known outlets.

Officials identified the unlicenced operation after receiving a tip-off from a member of the public.

“During the inspection the team found the facility didn't have a proper licence to practice any food activity and lacked the minimum health and safety requirements,” Shatha Al Mualla, spokeswoman for Sharjah's public health authority, said.

“The facility included worker accommodation and 15 employees were found without health insurance or labour cards."

Ms Al Mualla said the factory had no signage outside of the property indicating a business premises, and that staff were deliberately attempting to avoid detection.

Omar Al Muhairi, head of the food control division at the municipality, said food facilities were constantly being monitored by the department to crack down on illegal operations.

“The department regularly carries out inspection campaigns to ensure the safety of all consumers and we urge the public to collaborate with us and report any violations detected in any food establishment by calling 993,” he said.