In response to a recent food poisoning incident affecting 35 individuals in Riyadh, Saudi authorities are calling for heightened vigilance among restaurants and food service providers.

The Ministry of Municipal and Village Affairs and Housing Ministry has distributed a comprehensive safety guidebook to private sector food businesses, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to prevent such emergencies. Operators are urged to report any suspected food safety issues to authorities promptly.

The guidebook mandates establishments to immediately cease serving any food or ingredients deemed unsafe, ensuring proper labeling as "unfit for human consumption" until legal procedures are initiated. Additionally, operators must notify authorities if two or more staff members experience symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting while on duty.

Following the recent incident, which originated from a restaurant in Riyadh, health authorities swiftly intervened, hospitalizing affected individuals and initiating investigations. The restaurant's branches were closed, and its main supply facility in Riyadh was shut down, along with suspension of delivery services.

While the specific cause of the poisoning remains under investigation, the incident underscores the importance of food safety protocols. Saudi media has since engaged in discussions, with specialists offering advice on preventive measures to avoid foodborne illnesses.