Purpose: This study explores the link between the food safety grades, restaurant’s location and the type of restaurants in Dubai.
Methods: Data for this study were retrieved from the GIAFS (General Inspections and Fines System) of the department for 200 samples of chain and independent restaurants located in different areas for the year 2015.
Results: Grades from the chain and independent restaurants were used for a comparison of food safety compliance between the restaurant types within the same location versus different locations. Based on the evaluation of pooled means, significant differences were observed in the mean value in the each types and location of the restaurants. Amongst the chain restaurants, being located at old Dubai the restaurants were found to be less hygienic with the mean value of 2.46 (based on the grades) compared to those located in new Dubai with the mean value of 3.02. The independent restaurant in Deira shows a similar trend as compared to the one in Burdubai with the mean value of 1.64 and 2.84, respectively.
Significance: The study indicates a possible link between the location of restaurants and the number of violations and the overall food safety culture in the establishment. The studies assist the regulatory authorities in planning new requirements such as specialized interventions, infrastructure improvement, training to improve the knowledge of the staffs of the restaurants located in old areas and independent restaurants types.