NKFH: the closure of Chinese restaurants in the capital led to results, a national investigation has been ordered

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 03. 20. 10:33

The National Trade and Consumer Protection Authority (NKFH) revealed serious food safety and hygiene irregularities during an official inspection of several Chinese restaurants in Budapest, due to which it ordered the immediate closure of the catering units. Based on the experiences of the follow-up inspection, several restaurants fulfilled their legal obligations, so they were able to continue their activities. Based on the experiences of the past weeks, the NKFH has ordered a national inspection of fast food restaurants in the Far East, the authority announced in a statement sent to MTI on Thursday.

As detailed, the authority encountered similar food safety and hygiene problems during the inspections. Thus, the general hygiene condition of the inspected restaurants was extremely neglected: the kitchen areas and cooking areas were heavily contaminated, the floor was covered with dirty cardboard sheets and the wall coverings were damaged in several places, which made cleaning them difficult. The refrigerators and freezers were dirty and icy, while the storage drawers were broken and neglected.

NKFH staff regularly found a thick layer of dirt on kitchen shelves, utensils and storage containers.

Grease deposits were also visible on the ceiling and light fixtures, which clearly indicated a long-standing lack of cleanliness. Handwashing facilities were not provided, and in many cases water did not even flow from them.

The effective action of the NKFH is clearly demonstrated by the fact that the shortcomings and irregularities revealed during the inspections resulted in quick and decisive measures. These measures were not only of paramount importance in terms of food safety and consumer protection, but also gave a clear signal to the sector that the authority would take strict action against irregularities.

It was highlighted that the results of the follow-up inspections prove that the vast majority of the affected catering establishments recognized the importance of complying with the rules and, by implementing the necessary measures, ensured that their operations complied with food safety and hygiene regulations. As a result, these restaurants were able to reopen and are now operating in accordance with the legislation.

According to the NKFH, this has a positive impact on the entire catering sector in the long term, as it increases consumer confidence and improves the quality of services. In order to ensure that catering establishments carrying out similar activities operate properly, a national investigation has been ordered

– the office announced.