Checks on hospital canteens across Italy: nearly half were found to be unauthorized.

An extraordinary campaign of checks on hospital canteens and healthcare catering services by the Carabinieri NAS (National Anti-Corruption Unit) , which has entered into action throughout Italy.

Following the inspections, which involved 558 facilities throughout Italy, irregularities were found in 4 out of 10 cases. In total, 238 canteens and services were deemed non-compliant, equal to 42.7% of the total.

The most serious conditions, including insect infestations, were found in two hospital cafeterias in Naples and Brescia , where operations were suspended. Administrative sanctions were also imposed. In Salerno , microbiological contamination (enterobacteria and coliforms) was found on trays intended for meal distribution, while in Catania , approximately 60 kg of poorly preserved food was seized; the person responsible for preparing the meals was reported. Furthermore, in Parma , widespread hygiene and structural deficiencies were found in beverage storage areas, while in Taranto , the production of meals for celiacs was banned due to the lack of dedicated space and equipment and poor hygiene and structural conditions.

(Unioneonline)