A nationwide operation targeting food safety has uncovered concerning practices in some businesses in Fiji.
The Central Board of Health’s 10-week campaign, initially launched in the Central Division and expanded to Lami, identified violations. This is a real worry!
It resulted in 59 notices being issued to businesses operating without proper health licences.
The turn of events highlights a lack of compliance with basic food safety regulations, which is a concern. Adding to this, 35 establishments were served abatement notices for unsanitary conditions.
It is a concern that these conditions put consumers at risk of food-borne illnesses.
Perhaps what will attract a lot of attention is the revelation that eight businesses faced closure because of the severity of their violations.
We learn that inspections encompassed a wide range of establishments, including retail shops, bakeries, takeaways, and supermarkets.
Violations included non-hygienic practices and the sale of poor-quality food.
This suggests a major challenge within the food industry.
We wonder whether it could be because of inadequate training or just a disregard for public health.
However, it is encouraging to note that the Central Board of Health is proactive.
It is good to also note the enforcement operation will extend to other council areas within the Central Division and eventually the rest of the country.
We say the nationwide approach demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding consumer health.
We learn that the board has issued a clear warning to food businesses.
There is emphasis on the legal obligation to follow hygienic practices throughout the food chain, from processing and handling to storage and distribution.
Non-compliance, according to the board, will no longer be tolerated, and businesses face prosecution under the Food Safety Act 2003.
In saying that, any campaign that focuses on food hygiene should be encouraged.
This campaign serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety.
We know that it will highlight the bad things, the potential dangers posed by unhygienic practices and sale of substandard food. However, there is also the positive bit that is realised when people have access to safe food because processes must be followed.
Aside from this effort to address some shortcomings in the food industry, we feel the onus is on the powers that be to also assist people to choose a healthy lifestyle.
That will mean making healthy options affordable for the average worker. It will mean putting in place measures that will assist people to consider that and make lifestyle changes.
Finally, it is good to note the board taking a firm stance.
We are reminded about the importance of food safety and healthy eating and living!
