More food inspections in the summer. Sanitary inspectors inspect high-risk establishments more frequently.

High temperatures also mean greater risks for food safety. The Cyprus Health Authority intensifies inspections of premises and establishments deemed high-risk during the summer, with approximately half of all planned inspections occurring during the year.

As Irodotos Irodotou, Director of the Sanitary Services, told the Cyprus News Agency, the increased frequency of inspections is primarily aimed at preventing threats to public health. Particular attention is being paid to locations where, due to previous inspection results or the nature of their operations, the risk is higher.

Premises receive a risk assessment

The frequency of inspections is not the same for all food-related businesses.

Each establishment receives a rating based on specific criteria used by the Sanitary Service. This includes the results of previous inspections and food samples, as well as information from the European Rapid Alert System (RASFF).

On this basis, it is determined which places require more frequent inspection.

The aim of the services is to regularly check, primarily, premises classified as high-risk.

In summer, up to half of the annual inspections

High temperatures mean that some inspections planned for the entire year are carried out in summer.

If a premises is to be inspected three or four times a year according to a risk assessment, one or two of these visits may fall in the summer months.

The reason is that microorganisms multiply more easily, especially when food remains outside of refrigeration equipment.

The premises may be closed

If serious irregularities are detected, the Sanitary Services may apply more than just an administrative penalty.

If the condition of the premises requires it, the regulations allow it four-day closure.

If the owner corrects the violations earlier, the business can reopen before the deadline expires. However, if the owner fails to comply, the closure may be extended for another four days or longer until the problems are corrected.

One place closed this summer

According to Irodotos Irodotou, the Health Service has not closed any establishments this summer so far, apart from one in Limassol where food poisoning occurred during a wedding reception.

The services also conduct regular food sampling according to an annual schedule.

A full report on the inspections carried out is expected to be prepared at the end of the year or early next year.

Source: Cyprus News Agency (KYPE)