Health Ministry Shuts Down 'Oshi Oshi' Sushi Restaurant in Hadera Over Severe Sanitation Violations

The Israeli Ministry of Health has issued an immediate closure order for the 'Oshi Oshi' sushi restaurant located at 10 Prof. Shechtman Street in Hadera due to serious public health risks. The order, signed by district physician Dr. Marwa Matans, follows inspections that uncovered multiple critical hygiene violations, including salmon and tuna fish stored at unsafe temperatures, mold and rust in refrigerators, and a lack of proper handwashing supplies.

Initial inspections in early August revealed dirty equipment, cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, refrozen products, unlabeled items, and insufficient soap and paper towels. The restaurant owner was given a chance to rectify these issues during a hearing, presenting evidence of improvements and staff retraining. The closure was temporarily suspended with a warning that any repeated violations would lead to immediate shutdown without further hearings.

A follow-up inspection, accompanied by a city licensing official, found that while some issues were addressed, critical problems persisted and new violations emerged. Refrigerators were malfunctioning, salmon was stored at 9.4°C and tuna at 8.7°C, both above legal limits. Vegetables were inadequately washed, mold was found in a fridge, garbage bins lacked covers, and drainage channels were dirty.

Dr. Matans emphasized that due to the recurrence and severity of the violations, continuing operations posed a serious health threat. The closure order took effect immediately, requiring the restaurant to cease all activities. The Ministry of Health instructed the Israel Police to enforce the closure and ensure full compliance.