Controls in businesses - Food surveillance: more complaints and fines
Increased violations in food, cosmetics, and tobacco handling in Thuringia last year led to more criminal charges and fines than in 2022. A total of 42 criminal charges were filed against businesses in the sector, according to the annual report of the official food safety authority. This was up from 28 in the previous year.
The number of fines imposed on businesses rose by 54 to 215. Around 12,500 businesses in Thuringia were inspected, according to the health ministry.
22 businesses had to temporarily close
Of these, 1,028 or around 8% were found to have defects. Due to the identified shortcomings, 22 businesses had to temporarily close. In 2022, this number was 13.
Last year, inspectors paid particular attention to the cleanliness of slaughter animals and the use of dyes in fine bakery products such as cakes.
The number of food inspections in Thuringia was around 23,500, roughly at the level of the first COVID year 2020, but significantly lower than the pre-pandemic level. In 2019, there were around 34,600 inspections, and a decrease in inspections had already been noted in previous years.
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The increase in fines on businesses in the sector was primarily due to violations by consumers, leading to a higher demand for consumer education campaigns. Consumers should be more mindful of the quality of products they purchase, as their actions directly impact businesses and food safety regulations.
