Strict control

Food inspectors now under scrutiny themselves

This case involving half-dead crabs caused a sensation.(Bild: Marktamt)

Once again, the city's food inspectors are in the spotlight - but this time not as saviors from rotten meat or epidemic rice. Because now they themselves have been audited by the Court of Audit. 

When the food inspection staff turn up, the pulse in restaurant kitchens usually quickens. They have a reputation as meticulous sleuths - and that's a good thing. After all, the health of the Viennese population is at stake. However, when the Market Office's hygiene police actually show up during regular opening hours, it is usually too late for flimsy explanations. This is because in many cases the investigations begin beforehand.