Bundaberg Regional Council is urging local food businesses to embrace a proactive approach to community health and safety by participating in the Think Food Safe initiative.
Initiated by the Bundaberg Regional Council, Think Food Safe introduces an inspection rating system aimed at upholding the highest standards of food safety across the community.
This program not only assists food establishments in adopting excellent food safety practices but also empowers consumers to dine with confidence when they spot the Think Food Safe sticker.
Participating food businesses are urged to diligently monitor food safety protocols to adhere to national food safety standards and mitigate risks for consumers.
Carmen McEneany, spokesperson for the Community Liveability, Sport, and Recreation portfolio, emphasized the role of Council’s Health and Regulatory Services department in promoting the Think Food Safe program.
“The Think Food Safe campaign endeavors to raise community awareness and boost participation among local businesses,” stated McEneany.
She further explained, “Our Health and Regulatory Services team collaborates with businesses to ensure compliance with Australian Food Safety Standards and encourages proactive measures for food safety. This collaborative effort cultivates an environment where businesses thrive and consumers dine with peace of mind.”
With food licensing renewals and fees due at the end of June, the Council is actively encouraging food establishments to enroll in the Think Food Safe program if they haven’t already.
While participation in Think Food Safe is voluntary, businesses are incentivized with resources and benefits, including discounts on licensing fees.
Businesses enrolled in the program prominently display the distinctive green and orange Think Food Safe sticker, signifying their commitment to food safety standards.
The owner of Urban Dragonfly espresso bar, Jeanette Clarke, shared her positive experience with the Think Food Safe program since taking over the business nearly twelve months ago.
Clarke attested, “The program has enabled us to adhere to food safety requirements by conducting temperature checks and regular cleaning routines throughout the day.”
She continued, “It has also facilitated the identification of weaknesses in our supply chain, particularly regarding delivery temperatures from a new milk supplier. Through education and communication, we collaborated with the supplier to align their delivery processes with our standards.”
“Participation in the program not only reassures our customers of our commitment to hygiene but has also garnered positive feedback on the cleanliness of our space,” Clarke added.
Acknowledging the support received from Council’s Environmental Health team, Clarke emphasized the program’s significance in maintaining consistent food hygiene and safety practices for the benefit of both businesses and consumers.
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