Blankenberge (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On January 30, 2025, Blankenberge police conducted 25 checks in catering businesses and night shops, leading to 30 written follow-up reports and the temporary closure of a café because of hygiene offences.
The Blankenberge police conducted a large-scale operation that included inspections of 25 catering establishments and night shops, which resulted in 30 reports and the brief closure of one café. The initiative received FAVV’s recommendation to execute it through collective intervention with the Immigration Office and other governmental agencies. During inspections, Police Commissioner Jan Maertens identified various problems, including substandard hygiene practices and inadequate financial records, and arrested an undocumented worker. The operation serves the municipality’s continuous efforts to maintain standards in the local hospitality industry.
Inspections focused on weekend visits, specifically of businesses that had previously shown signs of non-compliance. Commissioner Maertens stated,
“Throughout the year, we collect information or receive tips. Based on that, a number of cases are then visited.“
Working with the FAVV proved to be crucial for improving the effectiveness of these inspections because they provide special knowledge about possible violations. Actually, during this operation, authorities identified a number of unlawful practices, such as undeclared work and drug possession. In one of the facilities, one person was found to be of another nationality, which forced the police to act.
The police temporarily closed one café due to non-compliance with health and safety regulations.
“If the establishment complies with all the guidelines, they may reopen,”
Maertens noted, emphasising that adherence to regulations is crucial for public safety. The 30 reports arising from this inspection show that there is a need for constant supervision of the catering industry.
Maertens further asserted that
“Such results show that control remains necessary. This action will therefore be repeated in the future,”
indicating that additional inspections are already being planned to maintain compliance.
Background information on catering inspections in Blankenberge
Blankenberge strengthens its attention to safety regulations for food and compliance standards inside its enthusiastic hospitality industry. During previous decades, food safety inspections have delivered two significant benefits, protecting people from foodborne diseases while safeguarding consumer health. Health authorities in Belgium execute inspections twice yearly but boost inspection frequencies based on the risk level of businesses under their watch.
Foodborne illness outbreaks have led to enhanced nationwide enforcement practices, according to available statistics. A strategic public health initiative between local police departments and agencies conducts operations to address hospitality sector violations while maintaining food safety requirements.
