Introduction
Egypt’s food & beverage industry is booming, but with growth comes responsibility. Restaurant owners must navigate a mix of food safety laws, menu regulations, licensing rules, and tax requirements. Missing a detail can mean fines, closures, or reputational damage.
This guide highlights the 7 most important regulations every restaurant in Egypt should know in 2025.
1. Food Safety & Hygiene Standards
- Restaurants must comply with Egyptian Food Safety Authority (EFSA) rules.
- Kitchens should maintain proper temperature control, hygiene protocols, and pest management.
- Staff must be trained in safe food handling and hygiene practices.
2. Digital Menu Trends & Transparency
- While Egypt doesn’t have mandatory calorie labeling like Saudi Arabia, digital menus and QR codes are becoming the norm.
- Customers increasingly expect transparency around ingredients, especially allergens.
- Early adoption of nutrition labeling can differentiate your restaurant.
3. VAT & Tax Compliance
- Restaurants are subject to Egypt’s Value Added Tax (VAT) laws.
- VAT-inclusive pricing is recommended to avoid customer disputes.
- Keep accurate digital records for auditing and financial reporting.
4. Allergen Disclosure & Consumer Protection
- Egypt is moving toward greater allergen awareness.
- Clearly label common allergens (gluten, nuts, dairy, soy, seafood) on menus.
- This isn’t strictly enforced yet, but proactive compliance builds trust and prevents liability.
5. Restaurant Licensing & Inspections
- Every restaurant must hold valid operating licenses from local municipalities.
- Authorities conduct periodic inspections for hygiene, food storage, and service standards.
- Non-compliance can result in fines or temporary closure.
6. Transparent Pricing & Receipts
- Egyptian consumer protection law requires clear price display on menus and receipts.
- Avoid hidden charges or sudden add-ons (e.g., service fees not disclosed upfront).
- Always issue receipts that include VAT and service charges.
7. Health & Employee Regulations
- Restaurants must follow Ministry of Health regulations on employee health certificates.
- Staff working with food must undergo medical checkups to prevent transmission of foodborne illnesses.
- Compliance ensures both safety and smoother inspections.
Conclusion
Egypt’s restaurant regulations are tightening as the industry modernizes. While some rules (like calorie labeling) are not yet mandatory, forward-looking restaurants adopt them early to win customer trust.
👉 Pro tip: Use a digital menu platform like Tappya to stay ready for future regulations—QR menus, allergen flags, VAT-inclusive pricing, and nutrition details can be managed in one place.
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