In a press conference today, Dr. Abdullah Khaleel, the Minister of Health, revealed that over the past eight months, 1,579 food-related establishments have undergone thorough inspections. The inspections were part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Health and the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) to address concerns over cleanliness and food safety.

This was due to recent reports on social media about the uncleanliness in certain food establishments.

During the press briefing, Minister Khaleel reported that 14 establishments failed to meet required hygiene standards and were initially shut down. Of these, 13 have since been reopened after addressing the deficiencies, while one establishment remains closed.

According to Minister Khaleel many of the establishments found to be non-compliant were operating secretly, often managed by undocumented foreign workers. The Ministry of Health is intensifying efforts to address these issues and ensure that all food establishments adhere to stringent health and safety standards.