Moroccan consumer protection groups are urging the public to avoid unregulated street food and improperly stored beverages as temperatures climb across much of the country, warning that the heat significantly increases the risk of foodborne illnesses.
The warnings come as several regions of Morocco experience unusually high temperatures, creating conditions that can accelerate bacterial growth in food that is not properly refrigerated or handled.
Bouazza Kherrati, president of the Moroccan Consumer Rights Federation, said the spread of unregulated street food vendors, particularly those operating from mobile carts, has become a growing public health concern during the summer months.
“Most of these vendors lack refrigeration, air conditioning and proper food storage facilities,” Kherrati told Hespress English, adding that the origin of many food products is often unclear and vendors frequently lack professional training in food safety.
Kherrati also warned consumers against purchasing bottled drinking water that has been left in direct sunlight.
He said prolonged exposure to heat may cause chemicals from plastic bottles to migrate into the water, while dairy products and meat sold without adequate refrigeration are at greater risk of spoilage.
According to Kherrati, consuming contaminated food can lead to severe food poisoning, with symptoms including vomiting, fever, headaches and diarrhea.
He warned that food poisoning can be particularly dangerous for children, older adults and other vulnerable groups, adding that symptoms may not appear immediately and can develop up to 72 hours after consumption.
To reduce the risks, Kherrati advised consumers to avoid eating from unlicensed food vendors and to remain vigilant even when dining at licensed establishments.
He recommended checking the cleanliness of food preparation areas, refrigerators and staff hygiene before ordering. He also suggested that families ordering meals together choose different dishes rather than identical ones, so that not everyone is exposed if one item is contaminated.
Hassan Ait Ali, president of the Moroccan Consumer Protection Observatory, echoed those concerns, saying high temperatures create ideal conditions for bacteria to multiply in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products and fresh juices.
He warned that food poisoning poses particular risks to children, older adults, pregnant women and people living with chronic illnesses.
Ait Ali urged consumers to avoid purchasing food displayed in direct sunlight or sold under unhygienic conditions.
He also advised ensuring that hot foods are served hot and perishable products are kept properly refrigerated, while avoiding salads, fresh juices and other highly perishable foods from unknown sources.
He encouraged anyone experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever or abdominal pain after eating to seek medical attention promptly.
Ait Ali also called on the relevant authorities to intensify food safety inspections of restaurants and street vendors during the hot weather period to help protect public health and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
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