THE recent prosecution of the owner of a Ngunnawal bakery, serves as a timely reminder to food operators of the importance of safe food handling, says director of the health protection services John Woollard.

The former owner of the bakery was convicted and fined $7000 for failing to comply with the Food Act 2001. The conviction was a result of a complaint from a customer who had bought a pie that was mouldy.

Mr Woollard is encouraging food operators to contact the directorate for advice on the requirements of running a safe food service.

“Recent prosecution of the former owners of a Ngunnawal bakery, leading to $7000 in fines is a timely reminder of the importance of safe food handling,” he said.

“This prosecution followed an investigation undertaken by the health protection service (HPS) that found the bakery was dirty, with evidence of vermin and insect infestation.

“All food operators should take this as a clear warning that breaches of food safety will not be tolerated and that our courts take risks to public safety very seriously.

“Food safety is an important public health issue, and while most businesses do the right thing and comply with good safety standards, there are some businesses that do not.

“The HPS will continue to take a hard line with food business operators when we detect serious food safety breaches.”

Mr Woollard said the health directorate encourages the public to report any concerns they may have about food safety issues with a particular food operator and food business operators to get in touch with the health directorate if they are unsure of their food safety obligations.

Members of the public and food operators can contact the Health Directorates Health Protection Service on (02) 6205 1700.