Egypt shuts down over 100 B.Laban branches
Dubai: Egypt's National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) has ordered the temporary closure of several high-profile food chains, including the most popular dessert franchise B.Laban, after inspections uncovered serious health violations and the presence of pathogenic bacteria in a variety of food products.
In a statement released Friday, the NFSA said that food samples collected from more than 47 outlets across the country tested positive for bacteria commonly linked to food poisoning. The authority also reported the use of banned food coloring agents, spoiled or mishandled ingredients, and widespread non-compliance with food safety regulations.
'These bacteria primarily affect the digestive system and are considered a major cause of foodborne illness,' the statement read. Some samples also showed signs of spoilage due to improper storage, prompting the confiscation of unsafe products and immediate suspension of operations at affected locations.
Among the most prominent closures was B.Laban, a dessert chain with over 100 branches across Egypt and operations in several Arab countries. The company announced the suspension of all its outlets nationwide, citing what it called an 'unprecedented crisis' that has brought its operations to a standstill and impacted more than 25,000 employees.
While B.Laban did not directly reference the NFSA's findings, it acknowledged in a statement that 'any entity operating at this scale may make mistakes,' and expressed a willingness to 'review, correct, and develop' its practices. The company positioned its closure as a blow to national entrepreneurship, stating, 'We are a model that proves Egypt is capable of exporting successful investment brands.'
The closures follow a similar incident in Saudi Arabia earlier this month, where authorities temporarily shut down several B.Laban branches following consumer complaints of food poisoning.
Other establishments now under investigation include Karam El Sham, a popular Syrian food chain, as well as dessert shops Kunafa and Basbousa, burger joint Wahmi, and the traditional feteer restaurant Am Shaltet. These outlets have also been temporarily closed pending further review.
The NFSA said inspections will continue 'without leniency,' and encouraged consumers to report concerns through the Consumer Protection Hotline or the official government portal. The authority emphasized its commitment to safeguarding public health and holding violators accountable.
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