Food regulator orders halt to packaged food producer’s operations over hygiene

The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has ordered the suspension of operations at Bileiyma Tasty, a local producer of packaged food products, citing violations of hygiene standards.

In a statement issued on Sunday night, the authority said the directive was issued following an inspection carried out after receiving a complaint.

According to the MFDA, the inspection found that the production facility did not meet food safety requirements and was operating in conditions that did not comply with regulations.

“Accordingly, this Authority has directed the establishment to cease all operations with immediate effect,” the statement said.

Bileiyma Tasty produces packaged food items including theluli faiy (fried leaves), koshi mas (chopped dried fish), kulhi kaajaa (spiced snack) and rihaakuru (fish paste).

The MFDA said the facility was also operating without the required registration under the Food Safety Act.

The law requires food production facilities to register with the authority before commencing operations.

The authority also advised the public not to consume or sell food products produced under the Bileiyma Tasty brand until further notice.

“Therefore, as a precautionary measure to ensure public health, we advise the public to refrain from consuming or selling any food products manufactured under the aforementioned brand,” the MFDA said.