A “Name and Shame” register has revealed poor food safety standards in numerous NSW businesses.
Five councils – Blacktown, Sydney, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland and Parramatta – had the greatest number of food safety law breaches in the past six months.
In it’s ninth year, the NSW Food Authority has released its “Name and Shame” register. The register outlines a range of breaches from a combination of establishments including bakeries, seafood stores and restaurants. Some of the breaches included:
- Failing to prevent pests (with cockroaches, rats and flies the most common pests to attract the attention of food inspectors)
- Leaving food open to contamination
- Neglecting to adequately clean and maintain equipment
In just a 30-day period, 22 businesses from three of the council areas listed above, were the subject of 35 food safety offences. A further 54 businesses were the subject of a further 82 offences in other councils throughout NSW.
As a result of these breaches, one chicken processor was ordered to pay over $40,000 in fines and professional costs. It was found that they were transporting fresh meat, intended for sale, on rusted and corroded trolleys and benches. Inspectors also found:
- Unclean equipment and utensils
- Staff change rooms without soap
- Rubbish and cigarette butts on site
While the majority of businesses on the list are independent operators, big name business also featured, including the likes of Dominos Pizza, Bakers Delight and Gloria Jeans.
Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Food Authority, Dr Lisa Szabo, says “food businesses are obliged to keep their premises clean and properly maintained, and ensure their food is safe and suitable for human consumption.”
She also commented that “consumers deserve to have confidence in knowing the food they purchase is safe to eat and will cause no harm to them or their family.
Food Safety and Your Business
While the register and breaches are for NSW businesses, it is important that all food businesses, regardless of location, operate safely and comply with the relevant state’s food safety laws.
WLSS help business by:
- Developing Management Systems tailored to your business to assist with compliance to not only Work Health and Safety laws, but Food Safety legislation as well
- Providing assistance and guidance with training, including on-site training programs
If you need help, or further information, call us today on (08) 8322 2279.
