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Within its regular inspection activity, the Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority (CAFIA) checked quality and safety of frying oils used by operators of restaurants and fast foods when preparing meals. CAFIA inspectors found oil used in frying equipment unsuitable for human consumption in every fifth to sixth inspected premises.

The inspectors assessed the condition of 47 samples of oil and frying equipment in the total of 38 public catering premises.

In 18.5% of inspected premises, the inspectors detected use of so-called burnt oil and assessed it as a foodstuff unsuitable for human consumption or preparation of meals. Moreover, the laboratory analysis confirmed very high degree of thermal decomposition at two samples. The assessment was carried out on the basis of sensory evaluation – smell, taste, colour, presence of solid parts, etc., and in particular by measuring the content of so-called polar compounds (PC) and also by laboratory determination of polymerized triacylglycerols (PTG) in the CAFIA accredited laboratory in Prague. In several samples, the laboratory confirmed multiple exceeding of acceptable values of thermal decomposition (TPM and PTG) of assessed frying oils.

Keeping correct frying practice and hygiene requirements for frying equipment were also constituents of the inspection. They are basic requirements for production of safe and quality foodstuffs. In 10% of inspected premises, the inspectors detected contamination of the frying equipment with solid oily impurities and neglecting of regular cleaning of the frying equipment.

Burnt frying oils contain substances unsafe to human health.

The inspectors ordered the inspected persons who violated legislation to remedy the detected deficiencies. CAFIA will also initiate an administrative procedure with them.

Compared to the inspections carried out in the previous years, the situation is stable. In 2019 the inspectors found unsuitable frying oils in 16% of inspected premises, in 2018, 26% of inspected premises were concerned. However, the overall situation cannot be regarded as satisfactory and that is why CAFIA will continue with these inspections of frying oils used in public catering facilities in the future as well.

Summary of all assessed samples including photo documentation is available on the Food Pillory website in the Section Thematic control.

Article by: Mgr. Pavel Kopřiva – CAFIA Spokesperson, phone: +420 542 426 633   

10^th February 2021