Restaurants and cafés in Bahrain face a new regulation as they will soon be required to install grease traps or risk losing their licenses. This initiative, proposed by Vice Chairman Saleh Buhaza in November 2023, aims to prevent harmful waste, particularly fats, oils, and grease (FOG), from clogging the sewage system. With nearly a year of advocacy from the Muharraq Municipal Council, the importance of stricter sanitation measures has been highlighted for food establishments in Bahrain.
Commercial grease traps play a vital role in keeping FOG out of wastewater systems in restaurants and cafés. By slowing down the flow of wastewater and allowing FOG to rise to the surface and solidify, these devices help prevent clogs in the sewage system. Not only do grease traps help avoid costly plumbing repairs, but they also contribute to improving hygiene standards and protecting the environment. For food businesses in Bahrain, installing grease traps will be essential to comply with local regulations and maintain hygiene standards.
The Ministry of Health has approved the proposal from the Muharraq Municipal Council to require grease traps in all restaurants and cafés. Business licenses will now be linked to the installation of these devices, with approval from the Ministry of Works being a prerequisite for obtaining a license. The Ministry of Health, after consultations with relevant government agencies, will incorporate the requirement for grease traps into the health regulations mandated for food establishments under public health law.
In December 2023, the Muharraq Municipal Council formally submitted their request for mandatory grease trap installations in food establishments. Following consultations with the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and other government departments, the proposal was evaluated for feasibility. With the approval from the Ministry of Health, all food-related businesses in Muharraq are now required to install grease traps before obtaining a business license.
The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs notified the council in early October that the mandatory installation of grease traps has been approved. This decision is supported by legal powers granted to the council to take necessary actions to protect public health and the environment. To ensure proper fitting of grease traps, approval from the Ministry of Works will be required before business licenses are issued to food establishments in the region.
Overall, the new regulation requiring grease traps in restaurants and cafés in Bahrain is a significant step towards improving sanitation measures and protecting the environment. By preventing FOG from clogging sewage systems, these devices not only help maintain hygiene standards but also contribute to the overall well-being of the community. With support from government agencies and ministries, the implementation of grease traps in food establishments will become a standard practice in Bahrain, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for all.
