Public Health Ministry has ordered a review of “fish cafés,” in which customers can enjoy meals and beverages while fish swim around their feet, to ensure their levels of hygiene meets the required standards.
The order was issued after such a café in the seaside province of Chon Buri was criticised for being unhygienic, which could pose risks to both customers and the fish.
Officials from the ministry’s office in the province, led by its director Dr Suthat Chaiyot, visited the café yesterday. It has four sets of tables with 12 seats. The floor is covered by water to a depth of 15–20cm, with koi carp swimming in it.
Customers are required to wash their feet before entering the café, which uses an underground water treatment system for the fish and for water used in the café.
Dr. Suthat said the café was ordered to suspend its services for seven days, while it applies for a permit to operate a business involving both food and beverage provision and pets.
The owners were advised to separate the fish pool from the dining area, install additional ventilation and prohibit children from entering the fish zone alone.
