The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has announced a nationwide enforcement exercise that will see the immediate closure of food service establishments operating without valid Food Hygiene Permits, effective February 1, 2026.
The directive affects a broad range of food businesses, including restaurants, hotels, lounges, chop bars, snack bars, food vans, bakeries and event catering services.
It also covers online food vendors and food service facilities operating in schools, hospitals and office premises.
According to the FDA, the action is grounded in Section 130 subsection one of the Public Health Act, 2012 Act 851, which makes it unlawful to manufacture, sell, supply or store regulated products in premises that have not been duly registered and approved.
In a public notice issued on February 1, the Authority made it clear that the measure takes immediate effect and will be strictly enforced across the country.
The FDA said any facility found operating without the required permit will be shut down and will only be allowed to reopen after fully regularising its operations.
The Authority explained that the move is part of efforts to protect consumers and ensure that food sold to the public meets acceptable safety and hygiene standards.
Officials say poor sanitation and unregulated food handling continue to pose serious public health risks, particularly in densely populated areas.
Food service operators have therefore been urged to act swiftly by contacting the FDA to complete the necessary registration and inspection processes.
The Authority also encouraged members of the public to be vigilant and report food outlets they suspect are operating without proper authorisation.
