Health Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel announced the launch of a new, simplified system for reporting issues in food processing facilities.

During a press conference, the minister highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to enhance food safety and mentioned that the previous reporting process was rather difficult.

The new hotline (7603204),  allows the public to send photos and videos of food safety concerns via WhatsApp and Viber.

The minister emphasized the importance of safeguarding food safety and stated that transitional regulations for registering food service establishments under the Food Safety Act will be published in the gazette on the 23rd of this month.

Under the Act, penalties for violating food safety standards range from MVR 10,000 to MVR 50,000.

The minister also noted that under this law to ensure the food safety of the people, if the producer is a foreigner, he will be deported and action will be taken against him.

President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu approved the Food Safety Bill in May last year to strengthen the regulation of imported and exported food in the Maldives.

The law, which comes into effect tomorrow, sets standards for food preparation, import/export, and the registration and licensing of food service establishments.