The Belgian city of Leuven finds itself grappling with a dire situation as a rampant infestation of mice has forced the closure of 10 restaurants within a mere 15 days. The Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (Afsca) has been compelled to take swift action due to concerns over public health and safety.
Hélène Bonte, a spokeswoman for the Afsca, said: “Pests are a well-known problem in big cities because they have old buildings that are often located by the water, but in Leuven there are more problems than elsewhere.”
The closures were initiated following inspections that revealed the infiltration of rodents into areas where food preparation and storage occurred.
The spokeswoman explained: “In the cases in question, our inspectors found that parasites had entered areas where contact with foodstuffs was possible and/or that packaging had also been eaten. As a result, public health was compromised.”
Leuven, a city known for its historical charm and vibrant atmosphere, has been under close scrutiny by the Afsca for months. However, the recent surge in mouse activity has posed unprecedented challenges, leading to the simultaneous closures of numerous dining establishments.
Johan Geleyns, Leuven’s trade alderman, acknowledged the gravity of the situation while highlighting the unique circumstances of the city.
He said: “We are a student city, which has many advantages, but also some disadvantages. Both on the streets and in students’ homes, food is sometimes left abandoned.”
The issue extends beyond Leuven, with several municipalities across Belgium grappling with similar invasions of mice, particularly in historic buildings. Kevin Vanderauwera, president of the Leuven restaurant and cafe owners’ union, emphasised the complexities involved in addressing the problem.
“They don’t close a business because of two mouse droppings! If the FASFC closes a business, it’s because, in their opinion, safety has been compromised,” he said.
Efforts to mitigate the infestation include information and prevention campaigns by the city’s services, urging greater vigilance in food and waste management. However, challenges persist, with exterminators noting the rodents’ increasing resistance to control products. “The poison is getting weaker and weaker,” a Belgian exterminator quoted by local media said.
