In Sweden, as in other Nordic countries, the Netherlands, and Germany, restaurant hygiene is excellent. This is because Sweden follows a HACCP-certified work approach with well-developed control systems and systematic routines.
Low rate of illnesses caused by restaurants
Sweden has low numbers of food-related illnesses per capita. Additionally, the Swedish Food Agency has introduced a new control system from 2025, which allows for national and international comparisons to detect deviations and ensure measures are taken.
What about Stockholm?
Stockholm has fewer restaurant closures per capita than many other European capital cities. However, cases do arise where restaurants need to be forced to close, as reported by SVT. Last year, 10 food establishments in Stockholm were banned from operating due to pests and poor cleaning.
"We inspect all food businesses in Stockholm. If there are deficiencies that are hazardous, we do not allow them to continue their operations," says food inspector Ola Kotsalainen to SVT.
In the 10 cases detected, the restaurants rectified the deficiencies immediately and all were able to reopen after a few days of sanitation and cleaning up after cockroaches and rat infestations.
Mobile app to check the establishment
If you plan to visit a restaurant or café, you can check if the establishment has been approved using the mobile app Livsmedelskollen. You can also report complaints and deficiencies in food businesses and view environmental administration inspections.
