Egypt shutters popular dessert chain over alleged hygiene breaches

Egypt’s food safety body has announced the temporary closure of over 100 branches of the popular Middle East-based dessert chain B.Laban on Friday, following reports of major breaches of health and safety regulations. 

The National Food Safety Authority (NFSA) said in a statement that several B.Laban outlets across the  country had been shut down after inspections revealed serious health violations, including the presence of pathogenic bacteria in various food products. 

The NFSA disclosed that food samples collected from more than 47 branches nationwide tested positive for bacteria commonly associated with foodborne illnesses. 

In addition, the authority reported the use of banned food colouring agents, spoiled or improperly handled ingredients, and widespread non-compliance with food safety protocols. 

According to the NFSA, these violations posed a significant threat to public health and warranted immediate enforcement action. 

“These bacteria primarily affect the digestive system and are considered a major cause of foodborne illness,” the statement read. 

The authority further noted that multiple samples exhibited signs of spoilage resulting from incorrect storage, leading to the seizure of hazardous items and the swift halt of operations at the impacted branches. 

B.Laban joins a list of other Middle Eastern food chains that have faced NFSA investigations, including the Syrian food brand Karam El Sham, local dessert shops Kunafa and Basbousa, burger outlet Wahmi, and traditional Egyptian feteer (pastry) restaurant Am Shaltet- all of which have been temporarily shut pending further review. 

In response to the claims, B.Laban issued an official statement expressing concern over what it described as an "unprecedented crisis" that could impact over 25,000 employees. 

The company confirmed on Saturday that it had been contacted to attend an urgent meeting with the relevant authorities to ensure full compliance with safety regulations and operational standards across the Egyptian market. 

It also reaffirmed its commitment to cooperate with all regulatory bodies and its readiness to transparently address any issues raised. 

B.Laban also emphasised its responsibility to "produce goods that reflect positively on Egypt both locally and globally."

The NFSA stated that inspections will continue "without leniency," stressing its commitment to protecting public health and adding that it will hold violators accountable. 

The closures follow a similar incident in Saudi Arabia earlier this month, where authorities temporarily shut down several B.Laban outlets after receiving consumer complaints of food poisoning.