Health Concerns Grow Over Food Safety in Popular Moroccan Tourist Destination

In search of a cooler climate and a humid atmosphere during this period of intense heat, the people of Marrakech are rushing to the Marrakech, Asni and Ourika region. Many of these visitors and tourists frequent the food stands, cafes and popular restaurants located along the Ourika valley. These establishments serve them lunch or sometimes breakfast on the edge of the valley, in an atmosphere of relaxation, tranquility and serenity. But concerns are raised about hygiene in these establishments. They are therefore calling on the regional authorities of the province of Al Haouz to carry out inspection checks.

These concerns can be justified by the two cases of collective food poisoning recorded in Marrakech within a month. Two people are said to have died and 24 others were poisoned after eating spoiled meat in a snack bar in Marrakech. Five people were also victims of food poisoning after eating a meal in a snack bar in Marrakech.

In order to prevent any possible food poisoning that could result from fraudulent practices and the greed of cafe and restaurant owners, local stakeholders have stressed the need for the authorities of the province of Al Haouz to intensify the monitoring of the food served by the owners of these establishments in tourist areas.