VICTORIA, Seychelles — The National Bureau of Statistics has reported that 80 percent of hand and surface swabs collected from food establishments in 2023-2024 failed hygiene tests, raising serious concerns about food safety practices across the country. The data, drawn from routine inspections conducted by public health authorities, points to widespread shortcomings in handwashing, surface cleaning and overall hygiene compliance in food handling establishments.
The high failure rate has prompted renewed calls from the bureau and public health officials for stronger enforcement of hygiene standards, more frequent inspections and targeted training for food handlers. Officials noted that while most establishments have been issued guidance on best practices, compliance has remained low, putting consumers at risk of foodborne illness.
The bureau has indicated that the findings will inform a national public health campaign and a tightening of the regulatory framework governing food establishments, including the introduction of mandatory training and more visible hygiene ratings. The data comes at a time when the tourism sector, a key pillar of the economy, depends heavily on the country’s reputation for clean and safe food service, and reinforces the need for sustained investment in food safety education and enforcement.
