ROME -In 2024, NAS, the so-called Italian food police, closed 57 restaurants due to expired food, poor hygiene, and a lack of food traceability, officials say. This marks a significant increase from the previous year, with more than double the amount of closures than 2023. The combined value of closed businesses this year is estimated at 40 million euros, a rise from 38 million euros last year and almost twice the 17 million euros in 2022.

 These intensified inspections are part of preparations for the upcoming Jubilee, during which Rome expects a substantial influx of tourists. Since January, NAS has conducted 630 inspections, issuing 670 violation reports, which have generated fines exceeding 750,000 euros. The most common violations include improper adherence to the HACCP self-regulation guidelines required for food safety, inadequate storage temperatures for various foods, and issues with product traceability, impacting both Italian and international cuisines.

 Confiscated goods for 2024 are valued at approximately 460,000 euros, a decrease from previous years, as closures this year are not included in the confiscation totals. By contrast, in 2023 and 2022, confiscated goods reached 4 million euros and 6.2 million euros, respectively, as these totals did include closed businesses.

 While most violations were recorded in Rome’s high-traffic tourist areas, the city’s outskirts, particularly along Via Casilina, also had numerous infractions, including 25 criminal penalties—serious violations subject to harsher sanctions than administrative fines. 

 The crackdown reflects Rome’s commitment to safeguarding public health as it prepares for the Jubilee influx.

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