More eateries fined as food violations mount

According to Oman’s new Penal Code, promulgated by the Royal Decree 7/2018, institutions or individuals accused of producing, manufacturing and storing rotten food could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of RO 10,000.

The term can be increased to 15 years in case of death.

The Muscat Municipality also stipulates hefty fine and closure of establishments for noncompliance.

According to the civic rules, a restaurant or any other eatery can be closed for a period of up to 10 days and fined RO 2,000.

In cases of repeat violations, offenders can be forced to pull down their shutters for at least six months.

Article 2 of the law specifies that the municipality has the right to close food establishments and public health stores practising an activity without a licence or any commercial fraud in food.

It can also close the establishments for poisoning resulting from food, non-compliance with health requirements, employment of infected workers with contagious diseases or any other reason determined by a competent authority like the municipality.

Muscat Municipality called on restaurants and cafés to comply with health regulations and asked consumers not to hesitate to report unhealthy practices by food establishments.